God has a plan. Thank you. A sigh of relief came at the name Ratzinger, lessening the loss of JPII.( Sigh again.)

Thanks for the link. Excellent article! Never realized how Ratzinger's past helped shape him the same way JPII's did!

I know the pope is the defender of our faith and we're under his protection, but I feel very protective of him too. I know I'm a sap, but I'd love for him to get the word that many people in America love him too and understand what it is he's defended all these years. I hope he comes over so we get the chance.

Hello, I am new to this site. I love it and thank you, Jeff and God for it. I have read somewhere where JPII was the "love" Pope and gathered and drew every one around. The church grew under his leadership. Now we have the "truth" Pope who will lead us even more powerfully. Of course, both Popes are about truth and love, but their different, underlying strengths are exactly what we have needed during their individual reigns.

Oooh, I like that Suzanne... I'm going to borrow that sentiment! Thanks.