I have to admit that this scares me becaude depending on what happens at the conclave, this could promote even greater crisis. Suppose the next pope is from the liberal wing of the church who sets out to un-do all that Benedict and John Paul did? Do good conservative Catholics just take it and follow obediently? Or do they take advantage of the fact that for the first time in 6 centuries those opposed to the pope's policies still have a living person to rally around? Recent schisms within the church had been very small affairs. If the conclave chooses unwisely then the potential is there for a much larger one. I guess we just have to pray that the Holy Spirit guides them and leads them to choose a strong individual to replace Benedict.
Yes. Pray and fast that the Holy Spirit’s inspiration be followed and not frustrated.
God knows all the details, and He alone. His plan is Perfect, as is His timing. We waste valuable prayer time worrying (I'm learning this lesson the hard way this month, so I know what I'm talking about here! LOL!) when we need the firm understanding and confidence in the loving care of the Mighty Ruler and Creator of all that exists. He has a plan. That's enough for me. I'm just going to pray that I get to see it advance HIS GLORY.
The odds of a liberal pope now are slim to none.
It will be hard to replace Pope Benedict though; he sets a high bar.