Second Day of Papal Conclave Concludes with Black Smoke, No Pope Elected

As of May 8, 2025, the Vatican's papal conclave has entered its second day without electing a new pope. Black smoke has risen from the Sistine Chapel chimney after multiple voting rounds, indicating that no candidate has yet secured the required two-thirds majority (89 out of 133 votes) to succeed Pope Francis, who passed away on April 21 at age 88.

• Voting Progress: The conclave commenced on May 7 with an initial inconclusive vote. On May 8, two additional ballots were cast in the morning, both resulting in black smoke. Further voting sessions are anticipated in the afternoon and evening. Leading Contenders: Cardinal Pietro Parolin, the Vatican's Secretary of State, is considered a prominent candidate. Other potential successors include Cardinals Matteo Zuppi, Luis Antonio Tagle, Peter Turkson, Péter Erdő, and Pierbattista Pizzaballa.

• Conclave Composition: This conclave features 133 cardinal electors from 70 countries, making it the most geographically diverse in history. A significant number of these cardinals were appointed by Pope Francis, suggesting a potential continuation of his vision for the Church. 

• Public Anticipation: Thousands of faithful have gathered in St. Peter's Square, awaiting the appearance of white smoke, which will signal the election of the new pope. The conclave remains a deeply traditional and confidential process, with no clear timeline for its conclusion.