Short memories. The Polish Pope inherited and confirmed a Frenchman as his Secretary of State and history marks many non-Italians in that position. The Secretary of State is the Nuncio to the World. If the Vicar of Rome and the President of the Italian Bishop's Conference, if both Papal appointmnets are Italian, why would an Italian Secretary of State be expected. This Holy Father seems to look beyond the expected to the ones whom he sincerely believes to be the best for the position. Expect a Cardinal who knows the world and can enter into dialogue with her leaders.

Having said all that I believe that that for BXVI that man is Cardinal Scola.
CBM | 05.27.06 - 4:21 pm | #

CBM

Cardinal Jean Villot, Secretary of State under Popes Paul VI and John Paul I, was confirmed 'donec aliter provideatur' by Pope John Paul II, thus becoming the first Secretary of State of the Polish Pontiff. Card. Villot was a frenchman.

However, it should be noted that it was Card Villot who, in a letter to the newly elected Pope John Paul II, expressed his opinion that, since a non-Italian pope was a novelty, the Secretary of State should be an Italian. Thus, he advised the Pope not to keep him as Secretary of State.

Pope John Paul II then replied with a letter, that can be found in the Vatican website, stating that He appreciated Card. Villot gesture, but that He would like to have the benefit of his experience, at least in the first phase of the pontificate.

Later, the pope followed Villot's advice, and appointed Casaroli, an Italian, as Secretary of State. Sodano succeded him.
Prof Antonio Basto | Homepage | 05.27.06 - 6:45 pm | #