Great Expectations: Pope Benedict XVI

Wow, a new Pope. . .

Let’s get things straight - I’m a former Catholic (accident of birth, I’m afraid). These days I have precious little interest in the church, and it’s been this way for the last. . .hmmmmm. . . twelve years.

On the other hand, I was surprised at the widespread media interest when John Paul II passed away. Now, despite my beliefs, I developed a profound respect for John Paul II during these days. He was obviously a man of peace and led by example by taking an inclusive stance on people of other religeons. But this is about papal elections, not John Paul II.

I was over in Bracknell today for a meeting, and found myself in the departure lounge in Heathrow for the return flight at about 5:00pm this evening. The BBC news was on, live from Vatican City. Initially, I gave it a cursory glance while I looked in my bag for something to occupy the next half-hour. What actually drew me to the news was the focus on the small chimney above the Sistine Chapel, and a bit of babble about the colour of the smoke.

Now, this was legendary stuff! I was to young to remember the election of John Paul II on 1978, but I heard all about it from my mother. Betcha the TV coverage wasn’t as good then, though!

It slowly dawned on me how interested I’d become. Then, as I looked around, I discovered the most of the departure lounge was enraptured too. We were all watching history unfold. Whatever my own convictions, I could feel the excitement of the crowd in St Peter’s Square, and I felt happy for them. The Roman Catholic church has an estimated following of 1 BILLION people: it’s deadly important that they can unite behind a strong figurehead. Hopefully Benedict XVI will follow in the large footsteps of his predecessor.