Rome
Cardinal Josef Ratzinger, possibly the most conservative of all the cardinals, is the front-runner to succeed Pope John Paul II, Time magazine reported this week. As head of the Congregation for the Doctrine of the Faith for the past two decades, Ratzinger has been in charge of explaining and enforcing the Vatican’s opposition to abortion and homosexuality, and he has a reputation for ideological rigidity. Since the current pope has reigned so long, many church watchers believe that the next conclave will choose an elderly man as a “transition” pope, with a shorter tenure. Ratzinger, 77, could be that man.
Subscribe to The Week
Escape your echo chamber. Get the facts behind the news, plus analysis from multiple perspectives.
Sign up for The Week's Free Newsletters
From our morning news briefing to a weekly Good News Newsletter, get the best of The Week delivered directly to your inbox.
From our morning news briefing to a weekly Good News Newsletter, get the best of The Week delivered directly to your inbox.
-
What are the different types of nuclear weapons?The Explainer Speculation mounts that post-war taboo on nuclear weapons could soon be shattered by use of 'battlefield' missiles
-
Floral afternoon teas to enjoy during the Chelsea Flower ShowThe Week Recommends These are the prettiest spots in the city to savour a traditional treat
-
How to plan a trip along the Mississippi RiverThe Week Recommends See this vital waterway from the Great River Road
