Cardinals Begin Conclave

The New York Times reports that Sistine Chapel's doors have been closed as the Conclave to select a new pope begins.

According to the Times, Cardinal Joseph Ratzinger who served as John Paul's theological right hand and watchdog is a front-runner in the election for the next pope, or at least the reference point for a bloc of support generally oriented toward a more conservative position.

Odds posted by Paddy Power PLC, show Cardinal Ratzinger of Germany at 11 to 2, is no longer the favorite of the oddsmakers. The odds now favor Cardinal Francis Arinze of Nigeria at 3 to 1. Paddy Power posts this information about Cardinal Arinze:

Francis Arinze - Born 1st November 1932 (Age: 70)
Arinze would be the first African Pope since Gelasius I in the fifth century.

Like John Paul II Arinze holds strong conservative views on abortion, contraception & homosexuality. Arinze believes that theologically all people come from the same God and his desire to improve inter-faith relations would see many other religions being welcomed by the Catholic Church

What will go in his favour?
His conservative views.
His ability to improve and encourage Inter-faith relations
He is well respected by fellow cardinals
It is believed that cardinals would like a Pope from the developing world, where the church has it's largest following

Not in his favour
Psychologically and spiritually the West may not be ready to welcome a black Pope and this may effect the Cardinals decisions when they go to vote. It is not a race issue but more about people’s mentality. Cardinals may not want much focus on improving inter-faith relations within the Catholic Church.

Comments

[Dave Schuler]

Remember that the Pope is also the bishop of Rome. Arinze speaks Italian well and that's another point in his favor.