Black smoke rose once again from the Sistine Chapel chimney as the second round of voting to elect the 267th pope failed to produce a result. The 133 cardinal-electors from 71 countries remain divided in their choice to succeed Pope Francis, who died last month.
Thousands gathered in St. Peter’s Square were briefly disappointed as the traditional signal of an inconclusive vote appeared. The conclave will continue with two more ballots later today. A successful election requires the support of at least 89 cardinals. If that occurs, white smoke will rise and bells will ring to announce the new pope.
TR