Papal Conclave Voting Continues: What to Expect

Papal Conclave Update

• 133 cardinals are currently behind closed doors in the Sistine Chapel to elect a new pope.
• Voting continues on the second day of the conclave after black smoke signaled no decision was reached on Wednesday.

The Voting Process

• A two-thirds majority is required to elect a new leader of the Catholic Church.
• The first vote on Wednesday night drew nearly 50,000 spectators to St. Peter's Square.
• Black smoke after the initial vote is considered a normal outcome, allowing cardinals to gauge support.

What to Watch For

• All eyes will be on the Sistine Chapel chimney again in approximately 90 minutes for the next chance to see white smoke, indicating a new pope has been elected.
• If a pope is not elected in the upcoming vote, cardinals can take one more vote today.
• Both Pope Benedict and Pope Francis were elected on the afternoon of the second day of their respective conclaves.

Election Secrecy and Expectations

• The conclave remains a secret until white smoke appears, signifying a decision has been made.
• While some cardinals like Italian Cardinal Proin and Filipino Cardinal Luis Antonio Taglay were considered front-runners, new names can emerge, as seen with Pope Francis's election 12 years ago.
• Some faithful hope the next pope will carry on Pope Francis's legacy of love and unity.