VATICAN CITY - The world watched with anticipation this morning as black smoke emerged from the chimney atop the Sistine Chapel. This signal confirms that the 133 cardinals currently gathered in conclave have not yet selected a new pope. The smoke, produced by burning the ballots after each round of voting, serves as a visual announcement to the public.
The cardinals remain sequestered within the Vatican, engaged in prayer and deliberation. Multiple rounds of voting will take place each day until a candidate receives the necessary two-thirds majority to become the next leader of the Catholic Church. When a pope is elected, white smoke will be released, followed by the ringing of the bells of St. Peter's Basilica.
The conclave continues, with the faithful worldwide awaiting the announcement of the new pontiff. The process is steeped in tradition and represents a pivotal moment for the Catholic Church.
No New Pope Yet: Black Smoke Signals Continued Conclave
Black smoke billowed from the Sistine Chapel chimney this morning, indicating the 133 cardinals participating in the papal conclave have not yet elected a new pope. The smoke signals that voting continues inside the Vatican. The cardinals will continue to meet and vote until a two-thirds majority is reached. White smoke will signal the election of a new pontiff.
Source: Read the original article at ABC