Could have told him that as soon as I heard about the Pope. (yes, I know "reasons" were given) First resignation in 600 years? About 2 weeks' notice for a job of leading a billion Catholics? Announcing this NOW instead of, say, just after the New Year when they could've had a new guy in place by the beginning of Lent?

Yes, *IT* has started. On every level.

Finances is one level. The Pope is another. Leader of the USA (to be seen shortly) will be a third. And there are a few more. All converging. Most interesting!