
It is the calm before the storm in the Vatican. A brand new Pope, fresh from a hectic two days that ended in a plume of white smoke, now meeting with cardinals for the first time since that historic vote that elected the first pontiff in modern times from Latin America.
The hubbub will rise anew at the beginning of the week, as tourists flock into Saint Peter's Square in anticipation of Tuesday's formal inauguration.
But for now the schedule is quiet and Pope Francis should enjoy it. It may well be the last quiet moments he gets for a while.
The job comes with a full plate. There are lingering sex abuse and financial scandals that seemed to prove too much for Pope Benedict, who left citing health and age reasons.
There are the changing demographics that seem believe led to his rise, since Latin America has the fastest growing of all Catholic populations.
And how does he keep the faithful on the straight and simple path, in a world becoming more complicated by the minute?
The press looks for little hints as to what the leadership of Francis will bring. Reporters point to the fact that he refers to "Brother Cardinals" instead of the more formal "Lord Cardinals," and that when eating he doesn't look for the head table but rather for whatever seat is free.
And of course there's the now famous story of him taking a rented car back to the hotel to pay his bill, ignoring the armored limousine at his beck and call.
Perhaps that's the plan, to lead by example.
If he can forego the perks of one of the highest profile jobs in the world, perhaps it's not too much to ask his followers, to forego the temptations in their lives as well.
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