FridayOL

Rome, Italy – As the world watches with bated breath, Cardinal Giovanni Battista Re, the Dean of the College of Cardinals, expressed his optimism for a swift resolution to the papal conclave. Speaking from Pompeii earlier today, Cardinal Re shared his hopes that the eagerly anticipated white smoke – signifying the election of a new Pope – will emerge before his return to Rome this evening.

The conclave, a centuries-old tradition, began on Monday as the 135 cardinals gathered within the Vatican's Sistine Chapel to elect the successor to Pope Benedict XVI, who resigned earlier this year. The cardinals have been in seclusion, dedicating themselves to prayer and deliberation, shielded from the outside world to ensure the integrity of the process.

“I hope that when I return to Rome this evening, I will find the white smoke,” Cardinal Re stated, reflecting the sentiment shared by many around the globe. The election of a new Pope is a momentous occasion for the Catholic Church and the world, marking a transition of leadership for over 1.3 billion Catholics worldwide.

The Significance of White Smoke

The tradition of using smoke signals to announce the election of a new Pope dates back to the 16th century. Black smoke, or “fumata nera,” indicates that no decision has been reached, while white smoke, or “fumata bianca,” signals the successful election of a new pontiff. The smoke is created by burning the ballots of the cardinals, with additives used to produce the distinct colors.

A City Awaits

Rome is buzzing with anticipation as crowds gather in St. Peter’s Square, eager to witness this historic event. The atmosphere is one of prayer, hope, and excitement as people from all walks of life come together to celebrate the continuity of the Catholic faith.

The Process of Selection

The cardinals vote in secret ballots, requiring a two-thirds majority to elect a new Pope. If a candidate fails to reach the required threshold, the ballots are burned, producing black smoke. The process continues until a candidate receives the necessary votes, at which point the ballots are burned with additives to create white smoke.

Once the new Pope is elected, he will be presented to the world with a series of announcements, culminating in the traditional “Habemus Papam” – “We have a Pope” – declaration. The new Pope will then appear on the balcony of St. Peter’s Basilica to deliver his first blessing to the world.

As the conclave continues, the world remains captivated, united in anticipation of the emergence of white smoke and the dawn of a new era for the Catholic Church. The prayers of millions are focused on the cardinals as they diligently seek the guidance of the Holy Spirit in selecting the next leader of the Church.