Bro Benedict is out after 8 years in office. Not looking good for the resume considering he’s the first Pope to resign in 600 years. Talk about a statement huh, 600 years and you have only 1 guy resign, that sounds ludicrous. Anyways with one leaving another must take his place so I did some serious research, traveled across the world, went to a bunch of Pope Combines, also attended some work outs and I have a final list for you all.
ABS-CBNNEWS.com (My notes are in bold)
– Joao Braz de Aviz (Brazil, 65) brought fresh air to the Vatican department for religious congregations when he took over in 2011. He supports the preference for the poor in Latin America’s liberation theology, but not the excesses of its advocates. Possible drawbacks include his low profile. Good vertical leap, on the younger side, high upside, raw talent.
– Timothy Dolan, (USA, 62) became the voice of U.S. Catholicism after being named archbishop of New York in 2009. His humour and dynamism have impressed the Vatican, where both are often missing. But cardinals are wary of a “superpower pope” and his back-slapping style may be too American for some. Great character guy, will be an absolute asset on the field, lacks size, great interview.
– Marc Ouellet (Canada, 68) is effectively the Vatican’s top staff director as head of the Congregation for Bishops. He once said becoming pope “would be a nightmare.” Though well connected within the Curia, the widespread secularism of his native Quebec could work against him. Character issues, A+ potential, may not have the will to compete, may have lost the love of the game
– Gianfranco Ravasi (Italy, 70) has been Vatican culture minister since 2007 and represents the Church to the worlds of art, science, culture and even to atheists. This profile could hurt him if cardinals decide they need an experienced pastor rather than another professor as pope. Once and a century guy, has all the tools, has the size, the speed, the quickness and catholic IQ you look for. Great locker room guy, can’t ask for a better replacement.
– Leonardo Sandri (Argentina, 69) is a “transatlantic” figure born in Buenos Aires to Italian parents. He held the third-highest Vatican post as its chief of staff in 2000-2007. But he has no pastoral experience and his job overseeing eastern churches is not a power position in Rome. Looks to be an absolute bust, came into the workout out of shape, looked slow all over the field, had a terrible attitude in the meetings. Pass, pass, pass.
– Odilo Pedro Scherer (Brazilia, 63) ranks as Latin America’s strongest candidate. Archbishop of Sao Paolo, largest diocese in the largest Catholic country, he is conservative in his country but would rank as a moderate elsewhere. The rapid growth of Protestant churches in Brazil could count against him. A lot of hype with this guy, came in very cocky, had a big presence on the room but could be an issues over time. Isn’t afraid to get dirty but size could be an issue. Talent is there but definitely immature.
– Angelo Scola (Italy, 71) is archbishop of Milan, a springboard to the papacy, and is many Italians’ bet to win. An expert on bioethics, he also knows Islam as head of a foundation to promote Muslim-Christian understanding. His dense oratory could put off cardinals seeking a charismatic communicator. Smart guy, high catholic IQ but lacks raw talent. Struggles to make the plays when needed, great interview.
– Luis Tagle (Philippines, 55) has a charisma often compared to that of the late Pope John Paul. He is also close to Pope Benedict after working with him at the International Theological Commission. While he has many fans, he only became a cardinal in 2012 and conclaves are wary of young candidates. The young and the restless, raw talent, could be an incredible replacement for the next pope but probably too young for this candidacy. Has the speed, great visual, benefits from supurb family jeans. No doubt will be Pope one day, just not this time around.
– Peter Turkson (Ghana, 64) is the top African candidate. Head of the Vatican justice and peace bureau, he is spokesman for the Church’s social conscience and backs world financial reform. He showed a video criticising Muslims at a recent Vatican synod, raising doubts about how he sees Islam. (Additional reporting by Philip Pullella; Editing by Giles Elgood) Couldn’t say enough about this guy. Fastest of all popes, quickness of the field, a great character guy, a leader, no weakness. Potential is only a B or so but if you were to take a safe pick it’s this man here.
So there you have it. After extensive research the Cardinals will probably offer either Gianfranco Ravasi (Italy, 70) or Peter Turkson (Ghana, 64) the Pope’s Post. I’m hearing word the contract will be about ‘Till You Die” for apporximently $0 dollars. It’s a bold offer but I think either will take it. I’m also hearing Nike will be sponsoring the next Pope whoever it may be. So you’ll be seeing that logo on the robe. Also just got word that Ravasi will be wearing 14 and Turkson will be wearing 19 and of course whoever is crowned will be wearing home whites on the special day.
Permanent Crayon 