Milwaukee native to help choose new Pope - WKOW 27: Madison, WI Breaking News, Weather and Sports

MILWAUKEE (WKOW) -- Pope Benedict XVI has delivered his final Sunday blessing at St. Peter's Square and one person who will help pick his successor is a Milwaukee native.

Cardinal James Harvey was ordained bishop by Pope John Paul II in 1998 and is now a cardinal in Rome. He has a big job ahead of him in the next month to help select a replacement for Pope Benedict.

Ruth Harvey, Cardinal Harvey's mother, says she talks to her son once a week, but they haven't discussed his upcoming decision.

"You know we never did that because that's his business," says Ruth Harvey.

Cardinal Harvey's sister Kathy Braun says her brother appreciates the gravity of his vote.

"I think it's an incredible responsibility that he has and it's very prayerful," says Braun. "I know he's really praying about this. And it's guided by the holy spirit."

Benedict's resignation takes effect on Friday. The cardinals are expected to make a decision next month.