However, Francis' record appears to indicate there will be no real changes where it matters -- on the status of women, power-sharing, sexual ethics -- and thus huge numbers of Catholics will remain alienated.

CNN: Pope Francis' humble superiority

One thing is certain: Those looking for changes when it comes to the Church's teaching on sexual ethics - on abortion, for example, or homosexuality, or condoms, or women priests - are likely to be disappointed.

BBC: Rome conclave: Uncertainty after first day's voting

The Rt Rev Graham James, Bishop of Norwich, said on behalf of the House of Bishops that it would be "unjust" to exclude anyone for consideration for the role of bishop who was "seeking to live fully in conformity with the Church's teaching on sexual ethics or other areas of personal life and discipline".

BBC: CofE drops opposition to gay bishops in civil partnerships