Vatican Awaits New Pope as Black Smoke Rises

Black smoke from the Sistine Chapel signifies the cardinals' unsuccessful attempts to elect a new pope. The secret conclave at the Vatican continues with two ballots each morning and afternoon until a candidate secures a two-thirds majority and is named the new pontiff.

At the Vatican on Thursday, black smoke billowed from the Sistine Chapel chimney, indicating that the conclave of cardinals failed to elect a new pope during the morning ballots.

The conclave, held under strict secrecy, commenced with an inconclusive vote on Wednesday evening. Cardinals will continue their deliberations with two votes each morning and afternoon until a two-thirds majority is reached.

The world waits with bated breath for the new pontiff who will lead the Roman Catholic Church.

(With inputs from agencies.)