Black Smoke Signals Inconclusive Voting at Conclave for New Pope

VATICAN CITY, Vatican City—Black smoke rose from the chimney of the Sistine Chapel at 11:50 a.m. on Thursday, May 8, 2025, indicating that the conclave to elect the 267th Pope did not produce a result after the third ballot. This is the second ballot of the first full day of the conclave, and the anticipation builds as cardinals break for lunch.

Approximately 15,000 people gathered in St. Peter's Square, eagerly watching the chimney for any sign of a new leader. Among the crowd were Sarah and Cameron, a newlywed couple from Indiana on their honeymoon in Rome. They had planned to attend Mass with Pope Francis on Thursday but expressed disappointment over the change of plans. Nonetheless, they understand the significance of the moment. “This is a once in a lifetime opportunity,” Sarah said.

Fr. Prashant Padu, a student from the Archdiocese of Bombay, echoed Sarah’s sentiments, expressing hope that the new Pope can provide guidance in a troubled world. “The Church has been blessed with wonderful Popes,” he said. “I hope the next one can embody the best qualities of them all.”

Voting is set to resume at around 4:00 p.m. as the cardinals continue their deliberations.