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The Catholic Church has a new leader (Photo: Vatican)

New German Pope causes joy and gloom

German Cardinal Joseph Ratzinger has been elected as the new leader of the world's 1.1 billion Roman Catholics, taking the name Pope Benedict XVI.

A staunch supporter of his predecessor, John Paul II, the new pontif has met with worldwide joy and apprehension in equal measures.

A conclave of 115 cardinal-electors from 52 countries made the decision in the Vatican's Sistine Chapel on Tuesday (19 April), in their fourth ballot.

Pope Benedict XVI (78) is the oldest man to becom...

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The Catholic Church has a new leader (Photo: Vatican)

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