[Biggirl]

....But you never know, this upcoming conclave could very well produce a “surprise” Pope.

[ken5050]

My own take, FWIW..Benedict's body is failing him, but his mind is still sharp as a tack..obviously he must state publicly that he has no involvement in choosing his successor, but can we really take that as gospel?

The Vatican has always been a hotbed of politics, and secret deals..."inside Godball" if you will, I suspect that Benedict has a good idea who he wants to succeed him, and has done as much as possible to make sure that happens...

[SumProVita]

....But you never know, this upcoming conclave could very well produce a “surprise” Pope.

________________________________________

The Holy Spirit has been known to do that. I really like Cardinal Burke, but we might ALL be surprised at the outcome of this conclave.

;-)

Lord Jesus Christ, Son of the Father, send down your Spirit over the conclave. Let the Holy Spirit inspire the hearts of the cardinals, that they may choose the man most pleasing to You, as Successor of Peter and Your Vicar on Earth. May Mary, Your Mother and Mother of the Church, be our Advocate. Amen.