Italian Press And Cardinal Sean O'Malley.

The Italian press remains fascinated with Cardinal Sean O'Malley, OFM CAP, the Archbishop of Boston, MA.  Recently the Italian newspaper, LaStampa, posted this story about Cardinal Sean on their website, Vatican Insider.  Among the various reasons for this interest, could be that Cardinal Sean is unique from the other members of the College of Cardinals.  A Capuchin Franciscan, he continues to wear his habit around the office, and at public functions.  Rarely does he wear the red trimmed cassock, biretta, and cape.  Determined to settle the legal suits concerning the sexual abuse of children by Archdiocesan priests, he sold the Cardinal's Residence (actually it was a mansion!). He now lives in a rectory.

Cardinal Sean is a quiet, humble prelate, but he does know how to lead.  He is an inspiring preacher.  And he has that common touch.

For all the attention that Cardinal Sean has received from the Italian press, and subsequently, from the American national press, there is very little of him being elected as the next Pope.  Which is fine by me, there is still a lot happening in this Archdiocese that requires his steady hand.