Black smoke once again emerged from the chimney of the Sistine Chapel on Thursday morning, signaling that the cardinals convened in conclave have not yet reached a decision on a new pope. This marks the second time black smoke has appeared, following a similar signal on Wednesday evening after the 133 cardinals began the process of selecting a successor to Pope Francis, who passed away on Easter Monday.
The selection of the 267th pope in the nearly 2,000-year history of the Catholic Church may take some time, with many speculating that a decision could be made by the end of the week, though the timing remains uncertain.
As the conclave continues, the world will be watching the chimney atop the Sistine Chapel, eagerly awaiting the white smoke that will confirm a new pontiff has been chosen.
