BOSTON (CBS) – Despite the buzz surrounding him the last two weeks, Boston Archbishop Cardinal Sean O’Malley says he’s a “very dark horse” in the race to become the next pope.
O’Malley made his comments to the National Catholic Reporter in an interview in Vatican City, where the College of Cardinals has gathered to elect a new pope.
Read: O’Malley Biography
Here is an excerpt from the article:
You have to be aware that there has been talk about you as a candidate. How do you react to that?
It seems kind of surreal. I guess I don’t pay that much attention to it. I realize that it’s out there, but I’m a very dark horse. As I told the people in Boston, I bought a round-trip ticket, and I think I’ll need it.
You’re able to laugh it off?
If I think about it, it’s very scary. Because I think the possibility is so remote, it’s not something that I worry about. Obviously, any cardinal going in could be elected. In fact, it doesn’t even have to be a cardinal.
Read: Who Is Sean Cardinal O’Malley?
O’Malley told NCR reporter John Allen he believes the conclave could start on Sunday, March 10.
Read: What is the conclave?
