Papal Conclave Update: Uncertainty Reigns as Black Smoke Signals Continued Voting
St. Peter’s Square was buzzing with anticipation Thursday morning as crowds gathered, hopeful for the election of a new pope. However, when the first smoke plume emerged just before noon, it was black—indicating that the cardinals were still undecided within the Sistine Chapel.
The wait echoes past conclaves, which saw rapid results within days. Many spectators, undeterred by the mid-day disappointment, shared their thoughts and recorded the event on their phones while light rain transformed into sunshine. Judith Duru, a nursing student from Nigeria, expressed her faith in the cardinals’ discernment, emphasizing that she hoped for a compassionate leader, irrespective of the new pope’s origin.
Among the gathered crowd were Joaquín Cáceres and Lucía Pérez from Argentina, who placed friendly wagers on when the next smoke would herald a decision. Despite initial enthusiasm, the crowd grew smaller compared to the previous day’s throngs, likely due to work commitments and tempered expectations for an early outcome.
Tourists like Philipp and Kathrin Wilmes, prepared for a lengthy vigil, stocked up on essentials like water and snacks, hoping for a swift decision before their flight home. Others, like Polish native Maciej Czaharyn, braved hours of waiting with makeshift comforts.
Local youth, including 16-year-old Flavia Valle, opted to skip school to witness history in the making, hoping the new pope mirrors Francis’ approachable style. As the day wore on, anticipation persisted, with many dedicating themselves to a hopeful wait for the arrival of white smoke and a new leader for the Catholic Church.
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