I'm sure the "liberal" nonsense comes from the comparisons between him and Pope John XXIII (usually as shallow as physical appearance) and the presumption that he was Ratzinger's main "opposition" leading up to the conclave. Apparently Cardinal Tettamanzi's "candidacy" went nowhere. And as for him being the "leading Italian candidate" for the next pope, it's probably based on the same media's own dubious theories from 3 years ago.

I don't want this to come of as being critical of the Cardinal, but George Weigel relays a story about a funeral (I don't remember whose, and for that matter it may have been Fr. Neuhaus' story) at which Cardinal Ratzinger gave the homily and Cardinal Tettamanzi gave a reflection after communion. Ratzinger got a sustained ovation, Tettamanzi's conclusion was greeted with silence. This was not long before the conclave and was said to play in the minds of many other cardinals who were present and wondered about the two men's ability to "move the crowd."

So as for this liberal candidate for the next pontificate, the media bats a typical 0 for 2.
Thomas | 03.11.08 - 4:28 pm | #