At around 9 PM local time, from the Sistine Chapel chimney, Black Smoke Rises: No New Pope Yet as Historic Papal Conclave Opens in Vatican. The highly anticipated 2025 Papal Conclave began with drama and tradition on Wednesday as black smoke billowed from the Sistine Chapel chimney, signalling that the 133 cardinal electors failed to choose a new pope on the first ballot.
This marked the opening round of what could be one of the most unpredictable conclaves in recent Catholic history, as cardinals from 70 nations gather to choose a successor to Pope Francis, who died on April 21.
Black Smoke Rises: No New Pope Yet as Historic Papal Conclave Opens in Vatican
No Pope Elected on Day One: What Black Smoke Means
At approximately 9 PM local time, black smoke emerged, confirming that no cardinal received the required two-thirds majority (89 votes). As the crowd in St. Peter’s Square watched intently, cheers and sighs mixed in the night air some disappointed, others exhilarated by the suspense of the unfolding ritual.
The conclave will resume Thursday morning (May 8) with up to four rounds of voting potentially taking place throughout the day.
What Is a Papal Conclave?
The conclave is one of the most secretive elections in the world, held within the Sistine Chapel under the iconic frescoes of Michelangelo. Cardinals under 80 years old participate, locked away without access to phones, internet, or media.
They begin with a Mass at St. Peter’s Basilica, then process into the chapel, chanting the “Litany of the Saints” and praying for divine guidance.
During the vote, each cardinal writes the name of their chosen candidate on a ballot, declaring:
“I call as my witness Christ the Lord who will be my judge, that my vote is given to the one who, before God, I think should be elected.”
Ballots are then burned in a special stove. Black smoke = no decision; white smoke = a new pope elected.
A Record-Breaking, Diverse Conclave
This is the largest and most globally diverse conclave in Church history:
- 133 electors (compared to 115 in 2013)
- Cardinals from 70 countries
- Majority appointed by Pope Francis (108 out of 133)
This diversity, particularly from the Global South (Africa, Asia, Oceania, Latin America), has introduced unusual unpredictability. Many cardinals didn’t know each other until last week, making alliances and consensus harder to form.
Front-Runners to Watch: Who Could Be the Next Pope?
As speculation mounts, several names have emerged as frontrunners to become the 267th pope:
- Cardinal Pietro Parolin (Italy) – 70, Vatican Secretary of State, experienced diplomat, widely seen as a leading contender.
- Cardinal Luis Antonio Tagle (Philippines) – 67, a progressive voice with global experience, possibly the first Asian pope.
- Cardinal Peter Erdo (Hungary) – 72, a more conservative figure, supported by traditionalist factions in Europe.
Despite the secrecy, internal Vatican leaks and media chatter suggest no clear majority yet.
Life Imitates Art: Cardinals Watching “Conclave” Movie for Insight
Surprisingly, many cardinals have taken cues from Hollywood. The 2024 film “Conclave”, starring Ralph Fiennes, has been widely watched by participants. Its accurate portrayal of internal Church politics, secrecy, and tension has been praised by real theologians and even some clerics.
Released just months before Pope Francis’ death, the movie mirrors the current reality: a divided Church, new power centers, and a potentially history-making decision.
The Science Behind the Smoke Signals
The Vatican now uses modern chemical mixtures to avoid past confusion:
- Black smoke: Created by chemicals like potassium nitrate and sulfur.
- White smoke: Made from pine resin and lactose to ensure clear visibility.
This science-backed ritual ensures unambiguous communication to the millions watching live worldwide.
What Happens Next?
The cardinals are expected to resume voting at 9:30 AM local time. If no consensus emerges, voting will continue through multiple rounds each day until white smoke rises.
Once a pope is elected, he will choose a papal name, often signaling his intended spiritual and political direction. A pope choosing “Francis II” might suggest continuity, while a different name could mark a new path.
After the election, the famous announcement will ring out:“Habemus Papam!” – “We have a pope!”
Also Read: Cardinal Kevin Farrell Becomes Acting Head of Vatican Following Pope Francis’ Death
Also Read: 2025 papal conclave begins at Vatican, with black smoke indicating no new pope chosen in first vote
