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Notes -
Is it fair to say that while Pizzaballa looks like perhaps the most logical candidate from an idealogical (mild conservative) and experience perspective (ie a diplomat with experience in the middle east) the fact that he's only 60 may be disqualifying for too many cardinals for him to have an actual chance at being elected?
Yes
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There are two sides to this one:
Last time a 'placeholder' pope was picked to kick the (pizza)ball to the next conclave, it was John 23 who called Vatican 2 and was perhaps the most consequential pope of the last 500 or so years
Last time a 'young' pope was picked to try to Shephard the Church it was John Paul II which, like, does anyone really complain about him? Point in favor of Pizzaballa
NB I am rooting for Pizzaballa, I don't even quite know why, just what I'm feeling called to
I'd love one of the African cardinals but to be honest, they're too old and too conservative for the views of what's needed. I have no idea who's going to get it, an Italian after the run of non-Italian popes may well be on the cards.
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