Black smoke in the first vote
Black smoke has emerged from the chimney on the roof of the Sistine Chapel, signifying that no pope has been chosen on the first ballot of this conclave.
Black smoke means no pope. White smoke, success.
On a day rich with symbolism, the scarlet-clad cardinals entered the Sistine Chapel in solemn procession, chanting prayers and watched over by the magnificent paintings of Renaissance artist Michelangelo.
Each of the cardinal-electors -- those under age 80 who are eligible to vote -- then swore an oath of secrecy, led by Cardinal Giovanni Battista Re, the most senior cardinal in the conclave.
A designated official then gave the order in Latin, "Extra omnes" -- that is, "Those who are extra, leave."
With all those not taking part in the conclave gone, the cardinals will remain locked in total isolation until one candidate can garner two-thirds of their votes.
That man will emerge from the process as the new spiritual leader of the world's 1.2 billion Roman Catholics.
The next vote is expected tomorrow, when the cardinals are ordered to have four votes a day until a new pope is selected
