One thing to realize is that Ratzinger has worn his spiritual and theological heart on his sleeve for decades -- he is an incredibly open person. He has done three, count 'em, three book-length interviews with journalists where he responded openly to every possible question about his outlook and beliefs. He's written his memoirs. And that sermon the other day was another example of the same -- no campaign oratory, but a cry from the heart.
The cardinals had to know exactly what they were getting.
Besides, the last time they picked an old guy to just sit quietly on things for a few years they got John XXIII. Surely that would make anyone skeptical of a "caretaker" option.
Yes, I agree. They got a 78 year old who isn't going to be around long, and is conservative so there won't be any sudden changes of direction. That will be up to the next Pope, probably within six or seven years.
The African cardinal tipped to succeed the Pope
Sify.com | 04/03/05 | staff
Posted on 04/03/2005 12:34:54 PM PDT by Perdogg
http://www.freerepublic.com/focus/news/1376641/posts
Ratzinger a Nazi? Don't believe it
Jerusalem Post | Apr. 18, 2005 | Sam Ser
Posted on 04/19/2005 9:52:18 AM PDT by Alouette
http://www.freerepublic.com/focus/f-news/1386748/posts
ADL: Pope 'Atoned' for Hitler Youth
NewsMax | 4/19/05 | Carl Limbacher
Posted on 04/19/2005 4:49:13 PM PDT by wagglebee
http://www.freerepublic.com/focus/f-news/1386993/posts
Ed Koch: The New Pope and Anti-Semitism
NewsMax | 4/19/05 | Ed Koch
Posted on 04/19/2005 5:03:46 PM PDT by wagglebee
http://www.freerepublic.com/focus/f-news/1387007/posts
Jews Come Out to Defend Pope Benedict Against Nazi Claims
Ravings of John C. A. Bambenek | 4/19/05 | John Bambenek
Posted on 04/19/2005 8:55:18 PM PDT by jbamb
http://www.freerepublic.com/focus/f-bloggers/1387114/posts