The search for the 267th Bishop of Rome continues after black smoke billowed from the Sistine Chapel chimney on Wednesday evening, indicating that no candidate secured the required two-thirds majority in the first round of voting.
The conclave officially began at 5:46 pm with the traditional “Extra omnes” proclamation by Archbishop Diego Ravelli, Master of Papal Ceremonies, marking the sealing of the Sistine Chapel doors.
Three hours later, the black smoke – visible to thousands gathered in St. Peter’s Square – confirmed that the initial vote had not produced a new pope. The cardinal electors have now returned to the Santa Marta residence and will resume voting Thursday following morning Mass at the Apostolic Palace.
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