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.

Believing that the only way to end Lenny's papacy is to involve him in a scandal, Cardinal Secretary of State Voiello blackmails Ester to seduce the pontiff.

Lenny enjoys a night away from the Vatican with a childhood friend, whilst Voiello has a crisis of conscience when an opportunity presents itself.

Nine months into Lenny's papacy, he gives his first audience to the Italian prime minister. Dussolier is put in charge of a controversial edict.

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.