Joseph Ratzinger became Pope Benedict XVI on April 19, 2005, replacing the late John Paul II, one of the most popular pontiffs of recent times. Now, following 2,000-year-old church traditions, Benedict XVI leads some one billion followers worldwide by both command and consent. His controversial past as head of the Catholic agency formerly known as the Inquisition may be prologue to his future leadership; as such, he remains a controversial and complex counterforce to liberal and radical forces in the church. This timely biography examines the pope's life and times, and ponders an important question for both Catholics and non-Catholics: How will Benedict XVI use his newfound influence?

Introduction by: Arthur M. Schlesinger