Following his sudden heart attack, Pope Pius XIII lies in a coma while his followers fervently pray for a miraculous recovery. As the threat of terrorism and the potential risks of Pius's idolatry loom, Secretary of State Cardinal Voiello is pressured to bring a new pope to power and, with the conclave at a deadlock, makes a hasty move that throws the Church into even greater chaos.
As rumors swirl about the Church's role in a sudden death, Voiello, Gutierrez, Assente, Aguirre and Sofia travel to the UK to the grand estate of Sir John Brannox, hoping to convince him to return with them to the Vatican and accept the holiest of roles. An alluring but sensitive man who carries with him an unshakeable family tragedy, Brannox is harder to sway than expected, but a determined Voiello presses ahead. Meanwhile, Ester shares her son's story with the press to makes ends meet.
Still considering the offer of Supreme Pontiff, Brannox reflects on his past, while Voiello makes clear his commitment to his mission's success. After being elected pope and taking the name "John Paul III," Brannox preaches the importance of family, truth and love in his first public homily and to the cardinals. Ester bonds with Fabiano, a widower and new member of the parish, who offers an unusual solution to her money woes. The Abbess of St. Therese and an anguished Sister Lisette are disheartened when their financial pleas fall on deaf ears.
John Paul III travels to Venice to visit Pius XIII. Meanwhile, a tragedy in Lourdes calls for the presence of the new Pope.
John Paul III meets Sharon Stone, who gives him new ideas. Meanwhile, the connection between the Pope and Sofia deepens.
The breath of Pius XIII is broadcasted on the radio. Meanwhile, John Paul III is preparing for a "historical" interview.
The terrorist threat becomes all the more menacing. Meanwhile, Assente's policies begin to undermine the Church's credibility.
Having uncovered John Paul III's secrets, Voiello begins his plan to regain power. Meanwhile, Lenny Belardo secretly returns to the Vatican.
A group of terrorists took hostages, this event pushes Pius XIII and John Paul III to confrontation.
