Papal Conclave 2025 schedule: The conclave to elect Pope Francis’ successor entered its second day of voting on May 8, 2025. After the first round of voting on May 7, black smoke rose from the Sistine Chapel, signaling that cardinals had not yet chosen a new pope.
Expectations for May 8th
On May 8, the cardinals will cast two ballots in the morning and two in the afternoon as part of the ongoing conclave. Following centuries-old customs, the cardinals will adhere to a rigorous voting procedure while confined within the Sistine Chapel. The cardinals will get closer to choosing the next pope with each ballot.
Key Times for May 8 Voting:
- Morning Sessions: 10 a.m. and 12 p.m. Vatican Time
- Afternoon Sessions: 4 p.m. and 6 p.m. Vatican Time
- Smoke signals will appear: black smoke will indicate no consensus, while white smoke will announce the election of a new pope.
The Voting Process: A Confidentiality and Commitment Promise
The cardinals pledge to keep things secret or risk excommunication by signing a vow of secrecy before to the election. The voting process is rigorous and takes place in secrecy in the Sistine Chapel. Every ballot’s result is significant, and the entire Catholic community awaits the announcement of the next pope’s election.
What Happens After the May 8 Voting?
Voting will continue throughout the week and beyond, as there is no set deadline for the election.Every day, the cardinals will get back together for the planned voting sessions. A two-thirds majority will finish the election process, and everyone will be watching for the distinctive white smoke that will indicate the choice of the next pope.
Conclave Highlights: Day 1
On May 7, the conclave began with a 10 a.m. Mass at St. Peter’s Basilica. The cardinal electors gathered in the Pauline Chapel to pray the Litany of the Saints. Afterward, they proceeded to the Sistine Chapel to take the oath of secrecy. Around 3:45 p.m. Vatican Time, the doors were closed, and the cardinals began their work.
Smoke Signals: The World Awaits
Black smoke was seen rising from the Sistine Chapel around 9 p.m. local time on May 7, signaling that no pope had been selected on the first day. The smoke is an important tradition that allows the public outside St. Peter’s Square to track the progress of the conclave. When white smoke appears, it will signal the conclusion of the conclave. This will indicate that the cardinals have chosen the next leader of the Catholic Church.
Source: USA Today
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