Onlookers flocked to St. Peter's Square, hoping for news of the election results. The moment of truth came at 9 p.m. when black smoke streamed from the chimney, indicating that the cardinals could not reach a consensus in the first round of voting. The burning of ballots, executed in a cast-iron stove, produced this outcome, signaling the process would continue for the time being.
"We are cold, we’re hungry, we’re thirsty but yet we can’t move,” shared Rev. Peter Mangum, a priest who had been waiting for hours, underscoring the devoted yet patient spirit of those gathered. All eyes remain on the chapel’s chimney, eager for a signal of white smoke that would announce a new pope, a historical event that hasn't occurred for over a decade.
As the deliberations continue, the faithful community waits with bated breath, anticipating a new chapter in the history of the Catholic Church.
"We are cold, we’re hungry, we’re thirsty but yet we can’t move,” shared Rev. Peter Mangum, a priest who had been waiting for hours, underscoring the devoted yet patient spirit of those gathered. All eyes remain on the chapel’s chimney, eager for a signal of white smoke that would announce a new pope, a historical event that hasn't occurred for over a decade.
As the deliberations continue, the faithful community waits with bated breath, anticipating a new chapter in the history of the Catholic Church.
