Vatican City, May 8, 2025 — The papal election process took another step today as black smoke was seen billowing from the Sistine Chapel chimney, signaling that no new Pope has been elected during today’s voting. The smoke, which rose against the backdrop of a crisp Vatican sky, is the traditional signal that the Cardinals were unable to reach a consensus on a new pontiff in the latest round of voting.
The Conclave began earlier this week, and today’s black smoke indicates that the Cardinals are still deliberating on the next leader of the Roman Catholic Church. The voting process will continue in the coming days until a new Pope is chosen.
The black smoke is a ritual that has been observed for centuries, representing the unsuccessful result of a papal vote. It will continue to rise after each round of voting until a cardinal secures a two-thirds majority, at which point white smoke will appear, signaling the election of a new Pope.
As the Conclave moves forward, Catholics and observers around the world are watching closely, awaiting the moment when a new leader of the Church will be named. The next voting round is expected to take place on Thursday, May 8, at 10:30 AM Rome time (4:30 PM Philippine Time).
Stay tuned for updates as the Conclave continues its important work.
