Some called Pope John Paul II "the world's conscience," and even those who disagreed with him seemed to honor the leader of the world's largest Christian denomination as a voice for good in a world where goodness sometimes seems in short supply. His words often elicited guilt from the pews and anger from theological or philosophical opponents.

Little wonder, then, that it is the new pontiff's stand on social and moral issues that both U.S. supporters and critics alike seem most focused on. Bishop George Niederauer assured local Catholics on Monday, as the cardinals were meeting in the Sistine Chapel to choose the new pope, that the process is a religious meditation rather than the result of public lobbying.

"Just a word about how some commentators in the media have described this ancient process of electing a new pope. At best they find it 'charming' and 'quaint,' with all the secrecy and the smoke coming out the chimney," he said.

"At worst, it's secretive and antiquated. But would modern really be better? Should the church establish toll-free phone numbers around the world so folks can phone in as often as they like to vote for their favorite? Or do we need an SAT-style test, with the highest scorer becoming pope?

"I think not. Maybe a hundred or so of the most experienced, tested and dedicated bishops in the church gathering in seclusion, silence and prayer is a rather good way to go. Especially for a church founded by a Savior who spent an entire night in prayer before choosing his first 12 apostles."

Even so, speculation will continue for some time about the new pontiff's agenda. Much has been made of the liberal leanings of American Catholics on social issues, but a recent poll shows them more moderate than non-Catholics on the social issues most readily highlighted as flashpoints with a conservative papacy.

An online survey earlier this month conducted by Beliefnet, Inc. questioned more than 5,300 people who identified themselves as Catholic about which direction they believe the church should take and what they want from the new pope. The issue of most concern doesn't deal with abortion, gay marriage or even celibacy. Rather, 87 percent said they want to see "increased efforts in fighting poverty."

Other issues Catholics identified: 67 percent favor more lay participation in the church; 63 percent want the ban on artificial birth control lifted and want to see those who have remarried be able to receive Communion without seeking an annulment from the church; 56 percent want priests to be able to marry; and 41 percent think the church should ordain women.