New pope continues traditions

VATICAN CITY -Pope Benedict XVI reinforced his caretaker image yesterday, reappointing the entire Vatican hierarchy chosen by his populist predecessor, John Paul II. At the same time, the new pontiff sought to dispel any impression that he was aloof or dour.

He waved and smiled at crowds gathered along the short stretch between the Vatican gates and his old apartment, where he spent some time in the afternoon. "Viva il papa!" some shouted. The pope, dressed all in white, raised both hands in a greeting.

His schedule also shows hints of the openness and symbolic gestures that were at the heart of John Paul's reign: a meeting with journalists Saturday, an outdoor Mass to formally take the papal throne Sunday and a visit Monday to a church built over the tomb of St. Paul -an apostle who carries deep significance for Roman Catholics and Christian Orthodox.

The Vatican even unveiled new e-mail addresses for Benedict, following an innovation started by John Paul.

In the first days of his papacy, the 78-year-old Benedict has projected two clear styles.

One was expected: The confident and well-prepared Vatican insider who was one of John Paul's closest advisers for more than two decades. His decisions on the top-level posts came quickly -some popes have struggled for weeks -and showed continuity with his predecessor.

Benedict was reported to have told cardinals shortly after he was elected that his papacy would be a short reign.

Friday, April 22, 2005
The Associated Press