Its a positive thing when the new Pope has chosen a name of a man who focused on the well being of animals. Perhaps the new Pope can now persuade his brethen to divert their attention from innocent children.

I am more concerned that this individual is really Tony Blair in disguise.

It took them less than 2 days. Consider it a midweek trip to Rome for a few Cardinals - hardly an onerous imposition.

It's probably a lot more effort to elect your local alderman.

When asked about his opinions on the administration of sacramental wine as a symbol of Christ’s blood to the under 18s, the new Pope replied, ‘In his opinion they’re both work well as lubricant although not as good as his tears’.

Ye Gods - is he not almost the same age as the last one who retired because of his advanced years

Why is the Church so nervous of youth

If Argentina invade the Falklands again, this time they'll have God on their side.

It seems to depend on the context.

Super, smashing, special - Bullseye !

If past experiences are anything to go by its the youths that should be nervous

It's probably worth resurrecting this thread just to add this.
It would be genuinely interesting to hear the views of any catholics out there who are willing to raise their heads above the parapet.

You couldn't make it up, could you ! On second thought, actually you can. Why do so many people allow themselves to be deluded by this nonsense.

In a word....'Sheep'.

Quite! At least the tide is changing (in Europe).

What a load of b~llocks

The same old same old of the Catholic church making it up as they go along

Im not a catholic, but Im married to one.

Honestly I dont see who their faith is hurting, its a source of comfort to her in hard times, its something to thankful of in good times, there is a sense of community and of people supporting and helping each other in the church and thats not a bad thing in this me first dog eat dog world.


If a miracle happened fine, thats great. If it didnt and they just want to raise the memory of a cherished leader to that of a saint, whos it hurting. Certainly not those of a more aetheistic mind set who would argue that they dont give two monkeys about religion and its trappings. Every religion, every club, every secret society has its rules and its cherished rituals, the catholic church is no different. The important thing isnt the robes and the incense waving, its the teachings that are passed on and the effect it has on the congregation in how those people go out and live their lives. If the majority of them go out and do more good deeds, help others, and live good lives than they would have otherwise then society is better for it.

Let people believe what they want to believe in peace, it works for them, it doesnt work for you, but thats life innit. Peaceful coexistence is good for everyone.

And when judgment day comes and all us agnostics and atheists are hurled into the fiery pits of hell for all eternity then they can have the last laugh. And if we die and thats it, then I dont see who they have hurt by trying to live a more pious life and trying to keep true to christs teachings which basically boil down to "love one another" (cue cheap pedophile preast jokes)