[Remole]

As I see it, from years of reading and observing and talking to folks, the top 3 issues are these. I am basing my thinking on the view that the cardinals will choose someone who will deal with issues that JPII has let erode or could not solve:

1. Centralization vs. More Local Autonomy. I don't know how this will play out, because there are at least 35% of the cardinals who DO like centralization. 2. The problem of a De-Christianized Europe. The cardinals see that Europe, except in a few locales, is mission territory, and a stronger sense of Christendom will be needed to withstand the growing threat of militant Islam in Europe. And 3. The need to keep the Church growing AND FAITHFUL in the 3rd world. I think the cardinals are well aware of the power of the evangelical movement in the 3rd World, and they see the need for vigorous and correct catechesis.

So I am leaning towards a Pastorally-minded European. Right now, my $$ is on Cardinal Scola of Venice. Of course, I am almost certainly wrong in every respect!

[sinkspur]

I think you've summed up the situation very well. Very well.

We're all just throwing darts when it comes to who, exactly, will be elected. But, he has a formidable task.