What's happened
The conclave to elect a new pope continues as cardinals failed to reach a decision on the second day of voting, with black smoke signaling no election. The process, which began after Pope Francis's death, requires a two-thirds majority from the 133 eligible cardinals.
What's behind the headline?
Current Situation
The conclave is currently in its second day, with cardinals voting in a highly secretive process. The failure to elect a pope on the first day has led to heightened anticipation, as previous popes were often elected by this time.
Voting Dynamics
- Majority Requirement: A two-thirds majority, or 89 votes, is necessary for election.
- Cardinal Diversity: The conclave is the most geographically diverse in history, with cardinals from around 70 countries, reflecting a range of progressive and conservative views.
- Historical Context: Recent conclaves have varied in length, with the shortest taking just two days and the longest extending to five days.
Implications
The outcome of this conclave is crucial for the future direction of the Catholic Church, especially in addressing issues such as:
- Geopolitical Challenges: The new pope will need to navigate complex global issues.
- Internal Church Divisions: The cardinals represent differing views on reform and tradition, which could influence the church's future.
- Public Expectations: The faithful are eager for a leader who can unify the church after a period of significant change under Francis.
What the papers say
The South China Morning Post reported that the successor to Pope Francis was chosen on the second day of voting, but the official announcement is pending. Meanwhile, The New Arab highlighted the cardinals' ongoing voting process, noting that they had sent up black smoke twice, indicating no consensus had been reached. Al Jazeera provided insights into the voting procedures, emphasizing the secrecy and the oath taken by the cardinals. The Guardian pointed out the challenges faced by the cardinals in selecting a successor, given the diverse opinions within the college of cardinals. AP News and SBS also discussed the historical context of conclaves, noting the varying lengths and the significance of the current conclave's diversity. Overall, the coverage reflects a mix of anticipation and uncertainty surrounding the election of the next pope.
How we got here
Following the death of Pope Francis on April 21, 2025, the conclave commenced with 133 cardinals tasked with electing his successor. The first vote on May 7 resulted in black smoke, indicating no decision was reached.
Go deeper
- What are the main challenges facing the new pope?
- How does the voting process work in the conclave?
- What are the expectations from the new pope?
Common question
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What is the Current Status of the Papal Conclave Voting?
As of May 8, 2025, the papal conclave is actively voting for a new pope after the first ballot resulted in black smoke, indicating no decision was reached. This conclave is particularly significant due to its unprecedented diversity and the implications it holds for the future of the Catholic Church. Below are some common questions regarding the voting process and its impact.
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Why is the Papal Conclave Taking So Long?
The papal conclave is currently ongoing, and many are wondering why the cardinals have not yet reached a decision on the new pope. With multiple rounds of voting and the pressure of diverse opinions, the process can be complex. Below are some common questions about the conclave and its proceedings.
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What are the Major Global Events Happening This Week?
This week has seen significant developments across the globe, from legal battles and political tensions to cultural milestones. Understanding these events can provide insight into the current state of affairs and their potential implications for the future. Below, we explore some of the most pressing stories and what they mean for the world.
More on these topics
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The Sistine Chapel ( SIST-een; Latin: Sacellum Sixtinum; Italian: Cappella Sistina [kapˈpɛlla siˈstiːna]) is a chapel in the Apostolic Palace, the pope's official residence in Vatican City. Originally known as the Cappella Magna ('Great Chapel'), it t
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A cardinal is a senior member of the clergy of the Catholic Church. As titular members of the clergy of the Diocese of Rome, they serve as advisors to the pope, who is the bishop of Rome and the visible head of the worldwide Catholic Church. Cardinals...