Benedict XVI is considering whether to issue a Motu Proprio clarifying the rules of next month's sede vacante period and conclave (video). Vatican Cardinal Robert Sarah is meeting senior officials in Jordan today to discuss the plight of Syrian refugees. Cardinal Timothy Dolan of New York has said it is “highly possible” that the next pope will come from outside Europe. The Vatican has published the full English text of Pope Benedict's off-the-cuff address on Vatican II to Roman priests last week. Ross Douthat, Matt Lewis and Edward Morrissey consider whether the Church will ever strongly influence American politics again. George Weigel argues that Benedict XVI was "a hinge man". And Fr John Zuhlsdorf invites you to predict the name of the next pope. Follow me on Twitter @lukecoppen for updates throughout the day.