Andre Koekenhoff (right) is the Thermovolt site manager for the solar panel project atop the Vatican's Paul VI Hall, where most of the Synod of Bishops is taking place. When I met the German outside the aula one week ago, he estimated that the installation should be completed in seven days. If not, one can blame the frequent interruptions: to preserve tranquility, work stops whenever "the boss" is around. He is of course referring to his compatriot Pope Benedict XVI, who, as it happens, has attended the majority of the synodal general congregations.