Picking an outsider, analysts say, could send a strong message that Pope Francis is determined to mount a purge of the insiders who have long dominated Curia ranks.

WSJ: Bid to Remake Church Will Focus on Vatican Administration

Celebrating Mass on Thursday, Benedict covered similar territory in his message to over 30, 000 parishioners gathered at the Mount of the Transfiguration, outside Nazareth.

CNN: Pope urges Israelis, Palestinians: 'No more war!'

Christian existence -- I have written in the Message for this Lent -- means to continuously climb up the mount for our encounter with God, so that afterward we can descend again filled with his love and strength to serve our brothers and sisters with the very love of God.

CNN: STORY HIGHLIGHTS