So they have elected a new pope. There seems to be some surprise at how quick it was done and it seems a lot of people are either very excited or very unhappy at the ‘sameness’ of Pope Benedict XVI to Pope John Paul II. As with everything, you can’t please everyone!

I know that the reporters and advisors are saying that essentially there will be no change from previous policies. I think, though, we should be praying that God will be able to use this man. I have problems with parts of Catholicism, but I acknowledge it is the largest Christian denomination in the world.

I will be praying that this new pope will re-investigate the area of contraception, the role of women, and sexuality generally. He has a great opportunity to do so much good, especially in the AIDS ridden areas of Africa. We believe in a God of miracles, and I can’t see why we have to think that the Catholic church is outside the influence of The God of Miracles.