Archbishop of Vienna, Schoenborn is the general editor of the updated Catechism of the Catholic Church.

Regarded as a sound administrator, he is among the most articulate of conservative cardinals and is considered an expert in philosophy and psychology.

A member of the Dominican Order, Schoenborn's promotion a decade ago came after a pedophile scandal involving his predecessor.

Schoenborn, who strives for a low profile, is considered to respected by Jews, Muslims, and Orthodox Christians.

Friends of Schoenborn have reportedly said he would serve if chosen to be Pope John Paul II's successor, but not enthusiastically.

In speaking out on poverty and AIDS in Africa recently, he said, "The world, the human family cannot let a continent die."