Lenny Belardo is the youngest Pope in history but also the first American pontiff. His radical ideas could change the Roman Catholic church, but underlying many of his choices is an ancient sorrow and a tormented relationship with his faith.

After his inaugural speech makes it clear that he will not be manipulated, Lenny makes enemies within the Vatican. However, he gains one ardent follower.

Dussollier blames himself after a tragedy and returns to Honduras. With Lenny's supporters dwindling, he questions whether his papacy is coming to an end.

Reeling from a personal loss, Pope Pius XIII makes an impulsive decision to visit Africa, meeting a revered missionary who stirs mixed feelings inside him.

Gutierrez is dejected by his failure to find evidence against Cardinal Kurtwell, but a new witness may be able to give him what he is looking for.