By Gloria Nosa
VATICAN CITY — The cardinals of the Roman Catholic Church returned to the Sistine Chapel on Wednesday morning as the papal conclave entered its second day. With no clear frontrunner emerging from the initial round of voting, attention remains focused on the outcome of the sacred and secretive process to elect a new pope.
Shrouded in centuries-old tradition, the conclave resumed with the 115 cardinal-electors taking part in the solemn ritual. As on the first day, they entered the Sistine Chapel under Michelangelo’s iconic frescoes, reaffirming their oath of secrecy before casting their ballots. Up to four rounds of voting may take place today, with ballots burned after each session — black smoke indicating no decision, and white smoke signaling the election of a new pope.
The conclave was convened following the resignation of Pope Benedict XVI, who stepped down citing declining health. The next pope will face the task of guiding a global Church amid modern challenges including declining church attendance in parts of the world, internal reform, and complex geopolitical issues.
Pilgrims and tourists continue to gather in St. Peter’s Square, their eyes fixed on the chimney that will eventually deliver news to the world. The mood remains reverent but expectant, as the faithful await the signal that a new spiritual leader has been chosen.
