The signal drew a solemn response from tens of thousands gathered in St. Peter’s Square, who had waited in suspense for hours.

Black smoke rose from the chimney of the Sistine Chapel at 9:00 p.m. on Wednesday, May 7, signaling that the first vote in the papal conclave had ended.

According to Vatican News, the ballot had taken place earlier that evening and concluded without the election of a Pope. Meanwhile, approximately 45,000 people had gathered in St. Peter’s Square, expecting news after 7:00 p.m., but the outcome came nearly two hours later.

Among those present was Deacon Nicholas Nkoronko from Tanzania. He said, “Our role here is to pray and to join with other Christians, other Catholics, to pray for the Holy Spirit to guide the whole process.”

Nkoronko emphasized that the Pope’s origin — whether from Africa, Asia, or America — was secondary to his spiritual leadership, stating that what the Church truly needs is “a holy Pope,” someone who “will guide the Church and will be the pastor of the Church.”

Online, public reactions varied sharply. One commenter wrote, “Swearing secrecy is not a good thing. This should be open. Secrets only leave room for deception.”

Another stated, “It is not worthy one to discuss with. Yet another election with no use.” Others questioned the process. One remarked, “I think these people are voting for themselves,” while another asked, “took so long?”

As the crowd dispersed in Rome and reactions continued online, the conclave prepared to move forward behind closed doors.