Around 45,000 people gathered in St. Peter’s Square, anxiously waiting for the outcome of the conclave. The crowd was filled with emotion and anticipation, eagerly awaiting the smoke signal that would indicate whether a new Pope had been elected. When the black smoke finally appeared around 9:00 pm, the crowd knew that the process would continue.
Among the crowd were Marta and Guillermo, a Spanish couple who had gotten engaged just the day before at Rome’s famous Trevi Fountain. For them, being in St. Peter’s Square was a dream come true, and they felt connected to the historic moment.
Also present were Sister Maria and Sister Julia, nuns from Spain who were part of a group praying for the cardinals during the conclave. They believed that the new Pope would be “the one the Spirit desires” and that the Spirit would guide the cardinals in their decision.
Matheus, a Brazilian artist, was also in attendance, having planned his trip to coincide with the conclave. Millions of people around the world are eagerly awaiting the election of the new Pope, and those in Rome hope to see the white smoke and hear the “Habemus Papam!” announcement. The conclave will continue, and the world waits with anticipation for the outcome.