No Pope Yet: Second Ballot on Day Two of Conclave Ends Without Result

VATICAN CITY, May 8, 2025: The second ballot of the second day of the papal conclave concluded this evening without producing a new pope. Black smoke emerged from the Sistine Chapel chimney at 12:00 noon Rome Time (3.30 p.m. IST), confirming that the 133 cardinal electors have not yet reached the required consensus. 

To elect a new pope, a candidate must receive a two-thirds majority—at least 89 votes. 

Pilgrims and visitors who had gathered in St. Peter’s Square expressed disappointment on seeing the fumes of black smoke emitting from the chimney of the Sistine Chapel. 

Conclave rules allow for up to four ballots per day: two in the morning and two in the evening. 

The evening session will begin at 4:00 PM Rome time (7:30 PM IST). Should a pope be elected during this round, white smoke is expected to appear by 5:30 PM (9:00 PM IST). If the vote remains inconclusive, a final ballot will take place, with the concluding smoke—white or black—expected by 7:00 PM (10:30 PM IST).

By Catholic Connect Reporter