The Roman Catholic Church has been in existence for nearly 2,000 years, and it will be here until the end of time. Pope Benedict is the greatest living Christian Theologian. Let us hope that he lives many more years in retirement and is able to continue his writings.
As to the next pope being a “hardliner,” I pray that our next pope continues in the ways of Pope Benedict who has accomplished a great deal in moving the Catholic Church back to its traditional beliefs and liturgy.
A hardliner, in today’s world is one who follows the... well heck, JFK - would be considered a hardliner today.