The smallest country in the world is one of the centers of diplomacy. The Pope is therefore one of the best informed personalities in the world. Peter Beringer’s documentary shows how Pope Francis sets the priorities of his foreign policy and looks back at why previous Popes failed or succeeded with their peace diplomacy.

The film examines the Society of St. Pius X, founded by Archbishop Marcel Lefebvre, whose members were excommunicated for rejecting the modern reforms of the Second Vatican Council. Discussions have been underway with the Vatican for many years with a view to restoring the unity of the Catholic Church – so far without success. It highlights the ongoing efforts to reconcile with the Vatican and restore unity within the Catholic Church.

Why are the battles between “conservatives” and “reformers” in the Catholic Church escalating so intensely today? The documentary shows that the infallibility claimed by the First Vatican Council  and Pope Pius IX continues to exert an immense power. Before, the church had been much more open in questions of doctrine and structures, and had also taken innovative paths. The film helps to understand the present against the background of the anti-modern “reinvention” of Catholicism in the 19th century.

Open discussion has seemed possible again after Pope Francis took office. But the pro-reform forces have become increasingly frustrated because no concrete steps have been taken. This is due to opposing forces: These groups, who want to prevent any reform, have launched attacks on Pope Francis - from the German-speaking area as well as from the USA and other countries. Who are these opponents of the Pope? What is their view of the church and the world? Who is supporting them – and why?

The film offers a rare glimpse behind the closed doors of the Sistine Chapel as the cardinals enter the conclave to elect a new pope. The detailed election process, the rules and rituals as well as the historical development of the conclave and the cardinals are examined.