The ‘simple and humble’ man of the church demonstrates the frailty and weakness of mankind
"Benedict XVI Leaves the Papacy," reads the stunning headline of the Vatican's L'Osservatore Romano. Monday's announcement of Pope Benedict's resignation caught many in the Roman Catholic Church and the world by surprise. But perhaps it shouldn't have. Pope Benedict XVI submitted his resignation freely, in accordance with Canon 332 of the church's. It is an unprecedented decision in modern history and offers the church and the world a profound teaching moment.
For the past eight years on the chair of Peter, Pope Benedict turned to Scripture far more than doctrine, making connections between the early Christians and people of our time struggling to live their faith.
When he took possession of the Archbasilica of St. John Lateran nearly eight years ago, he said:"The one who holds the office of the Petrine Ministry must be aware that he is a frail and weak human being – just as his own powers are frail and weak – and is constantly in need of purification and conversion." Monday, he showed us that he took those words to heart and put them into practice.
South Africa Latest News, South Africa Headlines
Similar News:You can also read news stories similar to this one that we have collected from other news sources.
Australian Cardinal Pell, Pope Francis’ top financial adviser, convicted of molesting 2 choirboysMELBOURNE, Australia — The most senior Catholic cleric ever charged with child sex abuse has been convicted of molesting two choirboys moments after celebrating Mass, dealing a new blow to th…
Read more »