No Pope: First conclave ballot ends without election

Vatican City, May 7, 2025- The Sistine Chapel remains veiled in silence and suspense as the first round of the papal conclave concluded without the election of a new pope.

A plume of black smoke billowed from the chapel’s chimney late this evening, signaling to the world that no candidate secured the necessary two-thirds majority from the College of Cardinals.

The result, while not unexpected, sets the stage for further rounds of voting as the cardinals continue their solemn deliberations to choose a successor to late Pope Francis, whose passing triggered this pivotal moment for the Catholic Church.

A total of 133 cardinal electors from across the globe have convened in strict secrecy within the Vatican walls. Bound by centuries-old tradition and an oath of confidentiality, these princes of the Church are tasked with discerning who among them is best suited to shepherd the world’s 1.4 billion Catholics in a time marked by spiritual, social, and political challenges.

Historically, conclaves that extend beyond the first ballot are common. The election of Pope Francis in 2013, for example, required five ballots. The duration of the conclave can vary, often reflecting the complexity of the Church’s needs and the diversity of views among the electors.

As the process continues, speculation outside the chapel swirls around potential frontrunners. Names such as Cardinal Matteo Zuppi of Italy, Cardinal Péter Erdő of Hungary, Cardinal Luis Antonio Tagle of the Philippines, and Cardinal Wilton Gregory of the United States have all been whispered among Vatican watchers.

For now, the faithful around the world wait and pray. Inside the Sistine Chapel, beneath Michelangelo’s fresco of the Last Judgment, the cardinal electors will return for more ballots by tomorrow’s sessions, guided by conscience and the Holy Spirit.

The next signal of progress will come with the smoke, white for a decision, black for delay. Until then, the Church remains in anticipation.

@Ick