Papalbility

The leader of the Catholic Church, Pope John Paul II, was rushed to a hospital today suffering from what Vatican sources termed "a breathing crisis" caused by a recent bout with the flu. No stranger to medical adversity, the Pope's health has been on the decline recently. Then again a Vatican spokesman gave the Pope only "days or months" to live back in October, 2003. Despite all this and two assassination attempts, the Pope has been the leader of the church for over 26 years.

But suppose the recent affliction proves too much for a man his age. What does this mean to the members of the Catholic church? A new shepherd must be found. Slight problem, sheep. You have no input in naming a successor. Secret vote is cast to determine a winner. The group known as The College of Cardinals, leaders of the church appointed by the Pope himself, have the exclusive authority to elect their leader. Talk about politics. No voting by the populous allowed. No campaign speeches or promises. No town hall meetings or debates. You have a better chance at naming the Heisman Trophy winner.

Church pundits are at odds over who has the inside advantage. Contrasting opinions are the norm. The pros of a candidate on one list become the cons on another. European conservative moral theologians are the front runners. Liberals , blacks and the young are considered longshots as are candidates from Third World countries and the U.S. Those with close ties to the Pope are granted no favoritism. Do we want someone with the nickname "the Panzer Cardinal"?

In light of the scandals brought to light, the Church and its people could benefit with a changing direction. Its highly unlikely, but maybe a prayer heavenly intervention might help.