Black smoke rose from the chimney of the Sistine Chapel on Wednesday evening, signaling that Roman Catholic cardinals failed to elect a new pope in their first round of voting.
The smoke, dark and unmistakable, told the crowd gathered in St. Peter’s Square that the church’s 133 voting cardinals had not yet reached the two-thirds majority needed to choose a new leader.
The vote came on the first day of the secret conclave to find a successor to Pope Francis, who died last month. No pope has been elected on the first day in recent memory, and few expected a decision so soon. Still, thousands watched the chimney in silence and hope, braving rain and long waits for a glimpse of history.
Earlier in the day, cardinals walked in a solemn procession into the chapel, where they took an oath of secrecy before casting their first ballots. Their only communication with the outside world now comes through smoke — black for no decision, white for a successful vote.
Cardinals will hold up to four votes per day starting Thursday, two in the morning and two in the afternoon, until someone secures at least 89 votes.
They’re staying at a Vatican guesthouse during the process, giving them time to reflect and talk informally between sessions.
This year’s conclave includes a record number of electors from around the world, reflecting the church’s growing diversity. Many expect a new pope could be chosen within days, but divisions remain over what kind of leader the church needs next.
Some cardinals want a pope who will continue Francis’ efforts to make the church more open and inclusive. Others prefer a return to stricter traditions and clearer teachings.
Among the possible contenders are Cardinal Jean-Marc Aveline of France, Cardinal Peter Erdo of Hungary, Cardinal Robert Prevost of the United States, and Cardinal Pierbattista Pizzaballa of Italy. The cardinals may also look again to Latin America, Africa, or Asia, where the church continues to grow.
The conclave will continue Thursday morning, with the world watching for another puff of smoke.
