Black Smoke Signals Pope Vote Deadlock
Black smoke poured from the Sistine Chapel chimney, signalling no pope was chosen in the first ballot of the conclave. The 133 cardinals failed to agree on a successor to Pope Francis, who died earlier this year.
Conclave to Continue With Multiple Daily Votes
The secretive election process will resume tomorrow. From Thursday onwards, the cardinals will hold up to four votes daily until a new Catholic Church leader is picked.
Massive Crowds Pack St Peter’s Square
Tens of thousands gathered to witness the historic moment. Police estimate 45,000 people are crammed into the square, eagerly watching for the smoking chimney to reveal the outcome.
Key Contender Emerges: Cardinal Pietro Parolin
After the doors to the Sistine Chapel were sealed last night with the traditional “extra omnes” (everyone out) call, only the cardinals remain inside to vote. Among them is Cardinal Pietro Parolin, Pope Francis’ former Secretary of State and a leading contender for the papacy.
The world now waits in suspense as the conclave continues its search for the next pontiff.
