This week, the cardinals are discussing a variety of issues, from Vatican finances to synodality. The conclave is, as expected, a referendum on Pope Francis' reform efforts.
But the cardinals will elect a person next week, not a platform. So, while they are discussing issues facing the church and the world, they are also assessing each other's personalities and character.
That assessment will dovetail with the dynamics of the voting. A front-runner like Cardinal Pietro Parolin may be faulted for his lack of charisma. To those who want a course correction from Francis, someone who will not take risks, Parolin's managerial temperament might be appealing. Someone who emerges as an alternative to Parolin, such as Cardinal Robert Prevost, head of the Dicastery for Bishops, shares Parolin's low-key temperament but is more obviously supportive of continuing Francis' reforms. The choice there is about policy, not personality.
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