As black smoke billowed from the chimney of the Sistine Chapel around noon on Thursday, the anticipation for the election of a new pontiff remained. However, the wait would not take long, as the first round of voting in the evening resulted in a positive outcome.
This election marks a historic moment, as the current assembly of cardinals comprises the most geographically diverse College of Cardinals in the Catholic Church's 2,000-year history. The cardinal electors, representing various nations and cultures, are adhering to time-honored traditions and rituals as they deliberate who will take on the momentous responsibility of leading the Church and its 1.4 billion faithful.
Historically, the selection process for a new pope has varied in duration, with the past century witnessing a range of three to eight ballots needed to reach a consensus. The cardinals' meticulous approach underscores the significance of this decision, as they seek to appoint a leader who can guide the Church through its current challenges and aspirations.
