You know, I'm no big fan of the current pope either. That post was more about me trying to think well of someone I don't approve of, to "love my enemy" as it were (though I don't necessarily go that far with the pope). For me at least, eulogizing is an important part of taking a rounded view of the person. I've criticized the pope in the past, and I'm not blind to the problems I have with him.

I hope my interest in hearing about possible popes from outside Europe doesn't come across as racist. I guess I am a little bothered that the fastest-growing areas of the Catholic church (and pretty much all Christian denominations, come to it) are poorly represented in the international leadership, and this seems like a good chance to perhaps change that. A fool's hope, perhaps but one I have nonetheless. :-) I agree, it will be a fascinating story to watch.