Scared Monkeys Discussion Forum

Current Events and Musings => Religion (discussion and debate) => Topic started by: klaasend on February 11, 2013, 09:16:17 AM



Title: Pope Benedict RESIGNING
Post by: klaasend on February 11, 2013, 09:16:17 AM
Pope Benedict to become first pontiff in 600 years to resign

In a sudden announcement that caught Catholics around the world off guard, Pope Benedict XVI said he will resign at the end of February, becoming the first pontiff to step down in nearly 600 years.

The 85-year-old pontiff made the announcement Monday, saying he no longer had the strength to carry out his papal duties.

"After having repeatedly examined my conscience before God, I have come to the certainty that my strengths, due to an advanced age, are no longer suited to an adequate exercise of the Petrine ministry," the pope said according to a statement released by the Vatican.

Read more: http://www.foxnews.com/world/2013/02/11/pope-benedict-xvi-to-resign-at-end-february/#ixzz2KbE8Y9QD


 ::snipping2::


Title: Re: Pope Benedict RESIGNING
Post by: Blonde on February 11, 2013, 11:39:22 AM
Pope's mission to revive faith clouded by scandal
By NICOLE WINFIELD | Associated Press – 2 hrs 40 mins ago

VATICAN CITY (AP) — Benedict XVI always cast himself as the reluctant pope, a shy bookworm who preferred solitary walks in the Alps to the public glare and the majesty of Vatican pageantry. And on Monday, the Vatican announced that the leader of the world's billion Roman Catholics was stepping down — the first pontiff to do so since 1415. ::snipping2::

Over the course of just a few months in 2010, thousands of people in Europe, Australia, South America and beyond came forward with reports of priests who raped and molested them as children, and bishops who covered up the crimes.
Documents revealed that the Vatican knew well of the problem yet turned a blind eye for decades, at times rebuffing bishops who tried to do the right thing.
Benedict had firsthand knowledge of the scope of the problem since his old office, the Congregation for the Doctrine of the Faith which he had headed since 1982, was responsible for dealing with abuse cases. ::snipping2::

http://news.yahoo.com/popes-mission-revive-faith-clouded-scandal-134811412.html


Title: Re: Pope Benedict RESIGNING
Post by: Sister on February 11, 2013, 08:34:35 PM
I give him a lot of credit -- others in his position haven't been willing to resign.
Blessings to him.


Title: Re: Pope Benedict RESIGNING
Post by: grace-land on February 11, 2013, 09:52:20 PM
Video of press conference with Cardinal Timothy Dolan of New York at link

http://online.wsj.com/article/SB10001424127887324880504578297543433266804.html

Updated February 11, 2013, 7:59 p.m. ET.
Pope Resigns in Historic Move

 ::snipping2::
The 85-year-old pope, who before his 2005 election was Cardinal Joseph Ratzinger, announced the decision to step down in a speech in Latin Monday to a small group of cardinals, saying he no longer had the vitality to perform his duties. Only two top Vatican cardinals were informed beforehand about the historic announcement, which quickly ricocheted around the world.
 
"His fidelity to maintaining the truth and clarity of the Catholic faith, to cultivating ecumenical and interfaith dialogue and in reaching out to inspire the next generation of Catholics have been great gifts to us all," said Boston Cardinal Sean Patrick O'Malley.
 ::snipping2::


Title: Re: Pope Benedict RESIGNING
Post by: grace-land on February 11, 2013, 10:03:31 PM
Four videos at link:
  New York Cardinal Timothy Dolan
  Cardinal Wuerth of Washington
  Pope Benedict XVI Resigns
  Georgetown Dean on Resignation

http://www.washingtonpost.com/world/europe/pope-benedict-xvi-to-resign-at-end-of-the-month/2013/02/11/64464db3-eaa4-4ecb-b320-e58840765cc4_video.html

Pope Benedict XVI to resign at end of the month
Mon Feb 11 2013




Title: Re: Pope Benedict RESIGNING
Post by: grace-land on February 11, 2013, 10:11:50 PM
http://www.dailymail.co.uk/news/article-2276884/Pope-Benedict-XVI-resigns-First-Pontiff-600-years-stand-longer-strength-carry-on.html#axzz2Kd94cYlD

A signal from above? Lightning hits St Peter's hours after Pope Benedict stuns cardinals with first resignation in 600 years
PUBLISHED:06:01 EST, 11 February 2013| UPDATED: 17:44 EST, 11 February 2013

 ::snipping2::
POPE BENEDICT'S RESIGNATION STATEMENT IN FULL
 
Dear Brothers,

I have convoked you to this Consistory, not only for the three canonizations, but also to communicate to you a decision of great importance for the life of the Church.

After having repeatedly examined my conscience before God, I have come to the certainty that my strengths, due to an advanced age, are no longer suited to an adequate exercise of the Petrine ministry.

I am well aware that this ministry, due to its essential spiritual nature, must be carried out not only with words and deeds, but no less with prayer and suffering.

However, in today’s world, subject to so many rapid changes and shaken by questions of deep relevance for the life of faith, in order to govern the bark of Saint Peter and proclaim the Gospel, both strength of mind and body are necessary, strength which in the last few months, has deteriorated in me to the extent that I have had to recognize my incapacity to adequately fulfill the ministry entrusted to me.
 
For this reason, and well aware of the seriousness of this act, with full freedom I declare that I renounce the ministry of Bishop of Rome, Successor of Saint Peter, entrusted to me by the Cardinals on 19 April 2005, in such a way, that as from 28 February 2013, at 20:00 hours, the See of Rome, the See of Saint Peter, will be vacant and a Conclave to elect the new Supreme Pontiff will have to be convoked by those whose competence it is.
 
Dear Brothers, I thank you most sincerely for all the love and work with which you have supported me in my ministry and I ask pardon for all my defects.

And now, let us entrust the Holy Church to the care of Our Supreme Pastor, Our Lord Jesus Christ, and implore his holy Mother Mary, so that she may assist the Cardinal Fathers with her maternal solicitude, in electing a new Supreme Pontiff.

With regard to myself, I wish to also devotedly serve the Holy Church of God in the future through a life dedicated to prayer.
 ::snipping2::


Title: Re: Pope Benedict RESIGNING
Post by: grace-land on February 12, 2013, 12:40:50 AM
http://abcnews.go.com/International/pope-benedict-xvi-resignation-expert-picks-pontiff/story?id=18466161#

Pope Benedict XVI Resignation: 7 Expert Picks for the Next Pontiff
Feb. 11, 2013

With 1 billion Catholics worldwide, the face of the church is changing.

It's something the cardinal electors may keep in mind when the conclave to elect a new pontiff begins in late March, said Matthew Bunson, general editor of the Catholic Almanac and author of "We Have a Pope! Benedict XVI."
 
RELATED: Pope Benedict XVI Resigns: The Statement

The 117 cardinals who are eligible to vote for the new pontiff hail from approximately 50 different countries, and they almost always elect one of their own.
 
Joseph Ratzinger, an intellectual and respected cardinal from Germany, was the frontrunner for the papacy in 2005, Bunson said. When elected, he became Pope Benedict XVI.
 
This year, there are no strong favorites.

"The door, in a way, is very much open," Bunson said.

FULL COVERAGE: Pope Benedict XVI Resignation

Here's a quick look at some of the possible picks for pope:
 ::snipping2::


Title: Re: Pope Benedict RESIGNING
Post by: grace-land on February 12, 2013, 02:08:03 AM
http://www.catholicnews.com/data/stories/cns/1300575.htm

Feb-11-2013
Pope Benedict's resignation will set in motion period of transition

By Catholic News Service

VATICAN CITY (CNS) -- While the surprise resignation of Pope Benedict XVI is a first for the church in centuries, it also leads to a complicated period of transition that ends in the election of a new pope.

Regulated by ancient traditions and recent rules, the period between popes -- known by the Latin term "interregnum" -- will begin exactly at 8 p.m. Rome time Feb. 28, a date and time Pope Benedict stipulated in a declaration he made Feb. 11 for when the See of Rome and the See of St. Peter will be vacant.

Normally the interregnum begins with a pope's death and is followed by a period of mourning.

This time the pope will resign from his ministry and spend a short period of prayer and reflection at the papal summer villa in Castel Gandolfo, south of Rome, before moving to a monastery at the Vatican.

The rules governing the interregnum are matters of church law, not dogma.

The apostolic constitution "Universi Dominici Gregis" confirms that as long as the Holy See is vacant, the universal church is governed by the College of Cardinals, which cannot, however, make decisions normally reserved to the pope. Such matters must be postponed until the new pope is elected.

Until there is a pope, the Roman Curia -- the Vatican's network of administrative offices -- loses most of its cardinal supervisors and cannot handle any new business.
 ::snipping2::


Title: Re: Pope Benedict RESIGNING
Post by: grace-land on February 12, 2013, 11:51:41 AM
Video at link

http://abcnews.go.com/International/pope-benedict-xvi-pacemaker-surgery-months-ago/story?id=18474974

Pope Benedict XVI Had Pacemaker Surgery Three Months Ago
Feb. 12, 2013

The Vatican today denied rumors that Pope Benedict XVI has bone cancer and that recent surgery to replace the battery in his pacemaker contributed to his decision to resign from office.

Benedict underwent the heart procedure three months ago, Vatican spokesman the Rev. Federico Lombardi said today, adding that he believes the pacemaker was fitted on Benedict before he was elected pope nearly eight years ago, while he was a cardinal.
 
"[It was] not a serious operation, just normal routine. [The surgery] had nothing to do with his decision," Lombardi said.
 
FULL COVERAGE: Pope Benedict XVI Resignation

Lombardi also said Benedict will keep all his appointments until Feb. 28, the date he announced that he will step down as pontiff. His last weekly general audience will be held Feb 27.
 
Lombardi said Benedict will depart at 8 p.m. Feb 28 "because that is the day he normally finishes his work day."

Vatican spokesman Greg Burke also discussed the heart operation during an interview with "Good Morning America" today.
  ::snipping2::


Title: Re: Pope Benedict RESIGNING
Post by: Sister on February 12, 2013, 01:32:49 PM
Thanks for these updates grace-land.
I admire the Pope's decision after prayer with God and not the feelings of people.
We must also answer to and be accountable to God first.
IMO


Title: Re: Pope Benedict RESIGNING
Post by: grace-land on February 13, 2013, 12:57:43 PM
Thanks for these updates grace-land.
I admire the Pope's decision after prayer with God and not the feelings of people.
We must also answer to and be accountable to God first.
IMO

You're welcome, Sister.  Agree with all you said...but it's a sad day.  :sad:


Title: Re: Pope Benedict RESIGNING
Post by: grace-land on February 13, 2013, 01:02:18 PM
http://www.oregonlive.com/today/index.ssf/2013/02/pope_benedict_xvi_resignation_8.html

Pope Benedict XVI resignation: He says he's resigning for the 'good of the church'
on February 13, 2013 at 7:04 AM, updated February 13, 2013 at 7:56 AM

(http://media.oregonlive.com/today/photo/12266317-large.jpg)

VATICAN CITY — Pope Benedict XVI told thousands of faithful Wednesday that he was resigning for "the good of the church" — an extraordinary scene of a pope explaining himself to his flock that unfolded in his first appearance since dropping the bombshell announcement.

Looking tired but serene, the 85-year-old Benedict basked in a standing ovation when he entered the packed hall for his traditional Wednesday catechism lesson. His speech was interrupted repeatedly by applause, and many in the audience of thousands had tears in their eyes.

A huge banner reading "Grazie Santita" (Thank you Your Holiness) was strung up at the back of the room.

Benedict appeared wan and spoke very softly, but his eyes twinkled at the flock's warm and heartfelt welcome. He repeated in Italian what he had told his cardinals Monday in Latin: that he simply didn't have the strength to continue.

"As you know, I have decided to renounce the ministry that the Lord gave to me on April 19, 2005," he said, to applause. "I did this in full liberty for the good of the church."
 ::snipping2::


Title: Re: Pope Benedict RESIGNING
Post by: grace-land on February 13, 2013, 01:14:59 PM
Video at link

http://www.usatoday.com/story/news/world/2013/02/13/pope-benedict-public-appearance/1915743/

Pope Benedict: Resigning for 'good of the church'
11:14a.m. EST February 13, 2013
Pope Benedict XVI makes his first public appearance since announcing his resignation.


Title: Re: Pope Benedict RESIGNING
Post by: grace-land on February 13, 2013, 01:34:52 PM
http://www.catholicnewsagency.com/news/pope-i-can-almost-physically-feel-the-prayers-and-love-for-me/

Pope: I can 'almost physically' feel prayers and love
Vatican City, Feb 13, 2013 / 03:45 am

(CNA/EWTN News).- Two days after saying he will resign, Pope Benedict XVI said that he has been able to feel, “almost physically,” the prayers and love that have been poured out for him.

“I have felt, almost physically, your prayers in these days which are not easy for me, the strength which the love of the Church and your prayers brings to me,” he said at the beginning of his weekly general audience.

“Continue to pray for me and for the future Pope, the Lord will guide us!" he told the thousands of pilgrims.

 The outpouring of support for Pope Benedict was evident from the moment he stepped onto the stage in Paul VI Hall. He was met with sustained applause when he began his remarks and had to pause until it subsided.

“Thank you for your kindness,” he responded as he resumed.

“I decided to resign from the ministry that the Lord had entrusted me on April 19, 2005. I did this in full freedom” the Pope stressed, adding that he made the decision “for the good of the Church after having prayed at length and examined my conscience before God, well aware of the gravity of this act.”
 
The Pope reiterated his official statement of resignation by saying that he was “also well aware that I was no longer able to fulfill the Petrine ministry with that strength that it demands.”

 “What sustains and illuminates me is the certainty that the Church belongs to Christ whose care and guidance will never be lacking.

“I thank you all for the love and prayer with which you have accompanied me.”
 ::snipping2::


Title: Re: Pope Benedict RESIGNING
Post by: Blonde on February 13, 2013, 02:53:09 PM
(http://i18.photobucket.com/albums/b104/Blondeonahd/Vatican-main_1671876a.jpg)


Title: Re: Pope Benedict RESIGNING
Post by: grace-land on February 13, 2013, 03:07:46 PM
http://newsfeed.time.com/2013/02/13/lightning-strikes-st-peters-basilica-the-day-pope-benedict-xvi-resigns/

Lightning Strikes St. Peter’s Basilica the Day Pope Benedict XVI Resigns
Feb. 13, 2013

Is it a sign from God or a massively impressive display of the force of nature?

While that answer may depend on your own theology, there’s no doubt that Agence France Presse photographer ‘s Filippo Monteforte picture of lightning set against St. Peter’s Basilica on Feb. 11 – the same day Pope Benedict XVI resigned – is spectacular in its own right. Monteforte had his camera trained on the building in Vatican City when the clouds seemed to part as a single bolt of lightning happened to strike the holy structure.

According to Monteforte himself, the fortuitous picture was the result of a lot of guesswork and included a severe display of patience as he waited for more than two hours for an opportune shot:

I took the picture from St. Peter’s Square while sheltered by the columns. It was icy cold and the rain was falling in sheets. When the storm started, I thought that lightning might strike the rod, so I decided it was worth seeing whether – if it DID strike – I could get the shot at exactly the right moment… The first bolt was huge and lit up the sky, but unfortunately I missed it. I had better luck the second time, and was able to snap a couple of images of the dome illuminated by the bolt.
 ::snipping2::


Title: Re: Pope Benedict RESIGNING
Post by: grace-land on February 13, 2013, 03:16:51 PM
http://www.newsday.com/news/nation/pope-benedict-xvi-celebrates-last-public-mass-as-pontiff-1.4640520

Pope Benedict XVI celebrates last public Mass as pontiff
Published: February 13, 2013 2:00 PM

(http://cdn.newsday.com/polopoly_fs/1.4640510.1360782308!/httpImage/image.JPG_gen/derivatives/display_600/image.JPG)
Photo credit: AP | Pope Benedict XVI greets the faithful at the end of the Ash Wednesday mass in St. Peter's Basilica at the Vatican on Wednesday. Ash Wednesday marks the beginning of Lent, a solemn period of 40 days of prayer and self-denial leading up to Easter. Pope Benedict XVI told thousands of faithful Wednesday that he was resigning for "the good of the church", an extraordinary scene of a pope explaining himself to his flock that unfolded in his first appearance since dropping the bombshell announcement. (Feb. 13, 2013)

Starting his public farewell to his flock, a weary Pope Benedict XVI celebrated his final public Mass as pontiff, presiding over Ash Wednesday services hours after a bittersweet audience that produced the extraordinary scene of the pope explaining his decision to step down directly to the faithful.

The mood inside St. Peter's Basilica was somber during the Mass, as if the weight of Benedict's decision and the finality of his pontificate had finally registered with the thousands of faithful present. But the basilica erupted in a rousing, minutes-long standing ovation as Benedict exited for the last time as pope, bringing tears to the eyes of some of his closest collaborators.

"We wouldn't be sincere, Your Holiness, if we didn't tell you that there's a veil of sadness on our hearts this evening," Cardinal Tarcisio Bertone, Benedict's longtime deputy, told the pope at the end of the service, his voice breaking.

"Thank you for having given us the luminous example of the simple and humble worker in the vineyard of the Lord," Bertone said, quoting Benedict's own words when he first appeared on the loggia overlooking St. Peter's Square after he was elected pope.

"Viva il papa!" the crowd yelled as Benedict stepped off the altar.
 ::snipping2::


Title: Re: Pope Benedict RESIGNING
Post by: grace-land on February 13, 2013, 08:18:05 PM
http://www.catholicnewsagency.com/news/vatican-releases-schedule-for-popes-final-days/

Vatican releases schedule for Pope's final days
Vatican City, Feb 13, 2013 / 06:05 am

(CNA/EWTN News).- The last days of Pope Benedict XVI will include three public appearances, a meeting with the priests of Rome, Lenten spiritual exercises, and audiences with politicians and cardinals.
 
Vatican spokesman Father Federico Lombardi detailed the final events of the Pope’s schedule for the press at a Feb. 13 meeting.
 
The first event on the list is Ash Wednesday Mass this evening in St. Peter’s Basilica, which will be his final concelebration of the liturgy.
 
It was originally slated to take place at Santa Sabina Basilica on Rome’s Aventine Hill in keeping with tradition, but the timing of the Pope’s announcement dictated that the Mass will take place in St. Peter’s.
 
On Thursday, Pope Benedict will meet in Paul VI Hall with the clergy of the Diocese of Rome and reflect on the Second Vatican Council.
 
Three politicians will have the chance to meet with the Pope before he leaves office. The president of Romania will be received on Feb. 15, while Guatemala’s president and the Italian Senator Mario Monti will be granted audiences on Feb. 16.
 ::snipping2::


Title: Re: Pope Benedict RESIGNING
Post by: grace-land on February 13, 2013, 08:31:04 PM
http://www.cnn.com/2013/02/11/world/europe/pope-resignation-q-and-a/index.html

Pope Benedict XVI's resignation explained
updated 11:06 AM EST, Tue February 12, 2013

(CNN) -- In an unexpected move, Pope Benedict XVI -- born Joseph Ratzinger -- has announced that he is to resign. Benedict was elected pope in 2005 after the death of Pope John Paul II. We explore what the surprise announcement means for the Catholic Church.
 
Why has Pope Benedict XVI resigned?
 
In his statement, Pope Benedict -- who turns 86 in April -- said he had come to the certainty "that my strengths, due to an advanced age, are no longer suited to an adequate exercise of the Petrine ministry."
 
Vatican spokesman the Rev. Federico Lombardi said Pope Benedict had the right and potentially the duty to resign.
 
But he stressed that the pope's decision was not because of any external pressure.
 ::snipping2::
What will Pope Benedict be known as once he has stepped down as pope?
 
According to the Catholic Bishops' Conference of England and Wales, Pope Benedict will return to being known as Cardinal Joseph Ratzinger. It said he would be addressed as his eminence or Cardinal Ratzinger.
 
However, Lombardi later told reporters it was hard to imagine that the pope would be called a cardinal.


Title: Re: Pope Benedict RESIGNING
Post by: grace-land on February 14, 2013, 01:40:27 AM
http://www.cbsnews.com/8301-18563_162-57569293/pope-benedict-xvi-appears-at-final-public-mass/

February 13, 2013 7:39 PM
Pope Benedict XVI appears at final public mass

(CBS News) VATICAN CITY -- Once Pope Benedict XVI leaves office, his new title will be "Bishop Emeritus of Rome." On Ash Wednesday, Benedict explained his decision to retire, saying, "I am no longer capable of carrying out Peter's ministry with the strength needed." At St. Peter's Basilica, the public said farewell to a pope.
 ::snipping2::


Title: Re: Pope Benedict RESIGNING
Post by: grace-land on February 14, 2013, 05:44:45 PM
http://www.catholicnews.com/data/stories/cns/1300654.htm

Feb-14-2013
In talk to priests, pope recalls experiences as Vatican II consultant

VATICAN CITY (CNS) -- Pope Benedict XVI, who has dedicated much of his pontificate to shaping the church's understanding of the Second Vatican Council, devoted one of his last public addresses to the subject, recalling his experiences as an expert consultant at Vatican II, praising some of its major documents and lamenting widespread distortions of its teachings.

The pope made his remarks Feb. 14 in his annual address to clergy of the Diocese of Rome. Although he had cited deteriorating "strength of mind and body" in explaining his historic decision to resign at the end of February, Pope Benedict, who turns 86 in April, spoke for 46 minutes, delivering a highly structured talk without a prepared text or notes.
 ::snipping2::


Title: Re: Pope Benedict RESIGNING
Post by: grace-land on February 14, 2013, 05:49:04 PM
http://www.catholicnewsagency.com/news/pope-media-helped-spread-misinterpretations-of-vatican-ii/

Pope: media helped spread misinterpretations of Vatican II
Vatican City, Feb 14, 2013 / 12:07 pm

(CNA/EWTN News).- Pope Benedict XVI said that many of the misinterpretations of the Second Vatican Council were caused by the media promoting its own version.
 
“The world interpreted the council through the eyes of the media instead of seeing the true council of the fathers and their key vision of faith,” said Pope Benedict at Paul VI Hall Feb. 14.
 
“Fifty years later, the strength of the real council has been revealed, and it is our task for the Year of Faith to bring the real Second Vatican Council to life,” he told the priests gathered to meet him.
 
Pope Benedict spoke with the priests of the Rome diocese in an unscripted speech on the Second Vatican Council, which he first attended as a special advisor to Cardinal Frings of Cologne and later on as a theological expert.
 
“The immediate impression of the council that got thorough to the people, was that of the media, not that of the Fathers,” he explained.
 
“The council of journalists did not, naturally, take place within the world of faith but within the categories of the media of today, that is outside of the faith, with different hermeneutics … a hermeneutic of politics,” added Pope Benedict.
 ::snipping2::


Title: Re: Pope Benedict RESIGNING
Post by: Sister on February 15, 2013, 11:56:09 AM
http://www.catholicnewsagency.com/news/pope-media-helped-spread-misinterpretations-of-vatican-ii/

Pope: media helped spread misinterpretations of Vatican II
Vatican City, Feb 14, 2013 / 12:07 pm

(CNA/EWTN News).- Pope Benedict XVI said that many of the misinterpretations of the Second Vatican Council were caused by the media promoting its own version.
“The world interpreted the council through the eyes of the media instead of seeing the true council of the fathers and their key vision of faith,” said Pope Benedict at Paul VI Hall Feb. 14.
 
“Fifty years later, the strength of the real council has been revealed, and it is our task for the Year of Faith to bring the real Second Vatican Council to life,” he told the priests gathered to meet him.
 
Pope Benedict spoke with the priests of the Rome diocese in an unscripted speech on the Second Vatican Council, which he first attended as a special advisor to Cardinal Frings of Cologne and later on as a theological expert.
 
“The immediate impression of the council that got thorough to the people, was that of the media, not that of the Fathers,” he explained.
 
“The council of journalists did not, naturally, take place within the world of faith but within the categories of the media of today, that is outside of the faith, with different hermeneutics … a hermeneutic of politics,” added Pope Benedict.
 ::snipping2::

BBM
that's novel, the media promoting its own version - ha!


Title: Re: Pope Benedict RESIGNING
Post by: grace-land on February 15, 2013, 02:27:58 PM
http://www.catholicnewsagency.com/column.php?n=2475

February 15, 2013
Spiritual warfare and the Pope’s resignation

Pope Benedict XVI has tendered his resignation effective 28 February, 2013. 
In making this stunning announcement before the College of Cardinals, the Holy Father cited “advanced age” and a lack of “strength of mind and body” as the factors that led him to conclude that he is incapable of “adequately fulfilling” the Petrine ministry.

At first blush, the Holy Father’s statement seems to say little more than, “I’m old and I’m tired,” and while I’ve no doubt that he is both, I do not for a moment believe that he is concerned only with matters purely physical.

So what exactly is moving Pope Benedict XVI to abdicate?

The answer is suggested in the book, Light of the World, wherein the Holy Father said that a pope “has a right and, under some circumstances, also an obligation to resign” if and when he "clearly realizes that he is no longer physically, psychologically, and spiritually capable of handling the duties of his office."

In spite of the Holy Father’s reference to “strength of mind and body,” there’s no indication that he lacks either mental acuity or psychological health, and while he is clearly suffering the effects of old age, if the final years of his predecessor’s papacy demonstrated anything it’s that even severe physical weakness doesn’t render one “incapable” of filling the duties of the Office.

This leaves just one thing; the spiritual realities of serving the Church as pope.

The Holy Father’s statement refers to the Church in our day as being “shaken by questions of deep relevance for the life of faith.”

What are these questions if not those that are begged by the content of Vatican Council II?
 ::snipping2::


Title: Re: Pope Benedict RESIGNING
Post by: Sister on February 17, 2013, 08:24:48 AM
Spiritual warfare is very real.  With all of his responsibilties, I don't know how he manages.
Just in my little corner of the world, it's a daily struggle.


Title: Re: Pope Benedict RESIGNING
Post by: grace-land on February 17, 2013, 07:52:12 PM
Spiritual warfare is very real.  With all of his responsibilties, I don't know how he manages.
Just in my little corner of the world, it's a daily struggle.

bbm  It appears to be a daily struggle, great or small.  Thank you for your efforts.
 


Title: Re: Pope Benedict RESIGNING
Post by: grace-land on February 17, 2013, 08:02:18 PM
http://www.cbsnews.com/8301-202_162-57569792/vatican-crowd-is-emotional-for-pope-benedict-xvis-first-post-announcement-angelus-blessing/

CBS/AP/ February 17, 2013, 7:39 AM
Vatican crowd is emotional for Pope Benedict XVI's first post-announcement Angelus blessing

Vatican City--Pope Benedict XVI blessed the faithful from his window overlooking St. Peter's Square for the first time since announcing his resignation, cheered by an emotional crowd of tens of thousands of well-wishers from around the world.
 
Smiling broadly, Benedict raised his arms outstretched to the massive crowd in his second-to-last Angelus blessing before leaving the papacy. A huge banner in the square read: "We love you."

The Sunday noon appointment is one of the most cherished traditions of the Catholic Church, and this moment is one of Benedict's last opportunities to connect with the Catholic masses.
 
The pope's voice was strong and clear as he looked into hazy sunshine over the square packed with at least 50,000 pilgrims, whom he addressed in Italian, English, French, German, Polish and Spanish.
 
Benedict made no direct reference to his stunning decision to step down on Feb. 28. But in his comments to Spanish-speaking pilgrims he asked the faithful to `'continue praying for me and for the next pope." And he thanked the faithful for their "affection and spiritual closeness."
 
The crowd broke out into cheers and wild applause.
 
The pope gave particular thanks to the "beloved inhabitants of the city of Rome," a possible hint at the title he will take after retirement. The Vatican has suggested he may be called "emeritus bishop of Rome."
 
The traditional noon appointment normally attracts a few thousand pilgrims and tourists, but city officials prepared for a crush of people seeking to witness a moment of history.
 
"We wanted to wish him well," said Amy Champion, a tourist from Wales. "It takes a lot of guts to take the job and even more guts ... to quit."
 
From Sunday evening, the pope will be out of the public eye for an entire week: A meditation service at the Vatican marks the beginning of the traditional Lenten period of reflection and prayer.
 ::snipping2::


Title: Re: Pope Benedict RESIGNING
Post by: Sister on February 18, 2013, 12:28:27 PM
Spiritual warfare is very real.  With all of his responsibilties, I don't know how he manages.
Just in my little corner of the world, it's a daily struggle.

bbm  It appears to be a daily struggle, great or small.  Thank you for your efforts.
 

It is a struggle, but one I don't make alone.  God is always here and there too, of course.


Title: Re: Pope Benedict RESIGNING
Post by: Sister on February 18, 2013, 12:30:17 PM
http://www.cbsnews.com/8301-202_162-57569792/vatican-crowd-is-emotional-for-pope-benedict-xvis-first-post-announcement-angelus-blessing/

CBS/AP/ February 17, 2013, 7:39 AM
Vatican crowd is emotional for Pope Benedict XVI's first post-announcement Angelus blessing

Vatican City--Pope Benedict XVI blessed the faithful from his window overlooking St. Peter's Square for the first time since announcing his resignation, cheered by an emotional crowd of tens of thousands of well-wishers from around the world.
 
Smiling broadly, Benedict raised his arms outstretched to the massive crowd in his second-to-last Angelus blessing before leaving the papacy. A huge banner in the square read: "We love you."

The Sunday noon appointment is one of the most cherished traditions of the Catholic Church, and this moment is one of Benedict's last opportunities to connect with the Catholic masses.
 
The pope's voice was strong and clear as he looked into hazy sunshine over the square packed with at least 50,000 pilgrims, whom he addressed in Italian, English, French, German, Polish and Spanish.
 
Benedict made no direct reference to his stunning decision to step down on Feb. 28. But in his comments to Spanish-speaking pilgrims he asked the faithful to `'continue praying for me and for the next pope." And he thanked the faithful for their "affection and spiritual closeness."
 
The crowd broke out into cheers and wild applause.
 
The pope gave particular thanks to the "beloved inhabitants of the city of Rome," a possible hint at the title he will take after retirement. The Vatican has suggested he may be called "emeritus bishop of Rome."
 
The traditional noon appointment normally attracts a few thousand pilgrims and tourists, but city officials prepared for a crush of people seeking to witness a moment of history.
 
"We wanted to wish him well," said Amy Champion, a tourist from Wales. "It takes a lot of guts to take the job and even more guts ... to quit."
From Sunday evening, the pope will be out of the public eye for an entire week: A meditation service at the Vatican marks the beginning of the traditional Lenten period of reflection and prayer.
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BBM
although it is not a "job" a most think of it, it is an answer to a calling.  To do otherwise would be disobedience to God, and that is not something we would want to live with.


Title: Re: Pope Benedict RESIGNING
Post by: grace-land on February 22, 2013, 09:47:54 PM
http://www.catholicsun.org/2013/02/22/pope-benedict-changes-rituals-for-new-popes-inauguration/

Pope Benedict changes rituals for new pope’s inauguration
Catholic News Service | February 22, 2013

VATICAN CITY (CNS) — Pope Benedict XVI has ordered several changes to the Masses and liturgies that will mark the inauguration of the next pope’s pontificate.

Rites and gestures that are not strictly sacramental will take place either before a Mass or in a ceremony not involving Mass, Msgr. Guido Marini, master of papal liturgical ceremonies, told the Vatican newspaper Feb. 22.
 
One of the most visual changes, he said, would be the restoration of the public “act of obedience” in which each cardinal present at the pope’s inaugural Mass comes forward and offers his allegiance.
 
When Pope Benedict celebrated his inaugural Mass in 2005, 12 people were chosen to represent all Catholics: three cardinals, a bishop, a diocesan priest, a transitional deacon, a male religious, a female religious, a married couple and a young man and a young woman recently confirmed.
 
Msgr. Marini said Pope Benedict personally approved the changes Feb. 18; they include offering a wider choice of traditional Mass prayers in polyphony and chant, rather than the new musical repertoire composed for the 2005 book.
 
After having personally experienced the liturgical rites drafted by Msgr. Marini’s predecessor — and approved by Pope Benedict immediately after his election — the pope suggested “a few changes aimed at improving the text” of the rites for the beginning of a pontificate, formally known as the “Ordo Rituum pro Ministerii Petrini Initio Romae Episcopi.”
 
The changes, Msgr. Marini said, “follow in the line of the modifications made in papal liturgies” over the course of Pope Benedict’s papacy.
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Title: Re: Pope Benedict RESIGNING
Post by: grace-land on February 24, 2013, 12:22:20 AM
http://www.catholicnewsagency.com/news/poll-finds-strong-approval-for-pope-benedict-catholic-tradition/

Poll finds strong approval for Pope Benedict, Catholic tradition

Washington D.C., Feb 22, 2013 / 02:05 am (CNA).- As the Feb. 28 resignation of Pope Benedict XVI approaches, the vast majority of U.S. Catholics have a favorable view of the pontiff, and the majority support traditional Catholic teaching as well.
 
According to a recent survey by Pew Research Center, 74 percent of U.S. Catholics “express a favorable view of the pope.”
 
This rating is similar to that March 2008, when about three in four Catholics held a “very” or “mostly” favorable opinion of the Pope shortly before his visit to the U.S.
 
Pope Benedict has been regarded favorably throughout his entire papacy, with approval ratings among U.S. Catholics ranging from 67-83 percent.
 
Pope Benedict’s predecessor, Pope John Paul II, also enjoyed a high favorability rating over the course of his papacy. The Pew Forum’s polling in the 1980s and 1990s found that more than 90 percent of Americans had a positive opinion of Pope John Paul II.
 
The Pew survey this past month also found that the majority of U.S. Catholics believe Pope Benedict has done an excellent or good job promoting relations with other religions.
 
Among the Holy Father’s efforts was the creation of ordinariates, structures under which entire Anglican communities could enter into communion with the Catholic Church.
 
Although Pope Benedict disciplined the disgraced Legion of Christ founder Fr. Marcel Maciel in 2005, the American public appears reluctant to praise his work against sex abuse.
 
Sixty-three percent said the Pope has done a fair or a poor job in addressing the sex abuse scandal. Only 33 percent said he has done an excellent or good job. This represents a decline from April 2008, when 49 percent of Americans thought he had done an excellent or a good job and 40 percent said he has done only a fair or poor job.
 
The February survey also sought Catholics’ views about Pope Benedict’s possible successor.
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Title: Re: Pope Benedict RESIGNING
Post by: grace-land on February 24, 2013, 12:26:23 AM
http://www.catholicnewsagency.com/news/vatican-slams-media-for-trying-to-influence-papal-vote/

Vatican slams media for trying to influence papal vote

Vatican City, Feb 23, 2013 / 08:00 am (CNA/EWTN News).- As the conclave to elect a new Pope approaches, the media has ramped up its speculation about why the Pope is resigning, causing the Secretariat of State to warn about “completely false and unverifiable” news stories aimed at swaying public opinion to influence the vote.
 
“It is deplorable that as we draw closer to the time of the beginning of the Conclave … that there is a widespread distribution of often unverified, unverifiable or completely false news stories, that cause serious damage to persons and institutions,” the Feb. 23 statement from the Secretariat of State said.
 
Italian newspapers and the international press have been filled in recent days with theories about both the reasons Pope Benedict XVI is stepping down and about how he will spend his last days.
 
One prominent example is a story run on Feb. 22 by the Italian daily La Repubblica. It alleged that a commission of three cardinals uncovered a gay network of priests at the Holy See who were being blackmailed.
 
Another report asserted that Pope Benedict would meet with the commission of cardinals in the Basilica of Saint Mary Major on his last day in office, a claim that Vatican spokesman Father Federico Lombardi denied.
 
The Vatican state department noted that the cardinals who elect the new Pope “have had to face many forms of pressures exerted upon individual electors or on the College of Cardinals.
 
“Such pressures had as their goal to condition the decisions, following a political or worldly logic.”
 
In the past it was usually States or politicians who “exerted pressures on the election of the Pope,” the department said.
 
But “today there is an attempt to do this through public opinion that is often based on judgments that do not typically capture the spiritual aspect of the moment that the Church is living.”
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Title: Re: Pope Benedict RESIGNING
Post by: grace-land on February 24, 2013, 12:44:42 AM
http://www.globalpost.com/dispatch/news/afp/130223/key-spots-pope-benedict-xvis-resignation

Agence France-Presse  February 23, 2013 20:46
Key spots for Pope Benedict XVI's resignation

From St Peter's Square to the Sistine Chapel, the locations where Pope Benedict XVI's resignation and the election of his successor will play out in the coming days are part of a rich artistic heritage.
 
Here are descriptions of the main spots to watch, starting with the pope's last Sunday prayers in front of crowds in St Peter's Square:

- St Peter's Square -
 
Architect Gian Lorenzo Bernini designed the famous Vatican plaza in the 17th century, which has a 4,000-year-old Egyptian obelisk in the middle.
 
The famous marble colonnades -- four columns deep -- are arranged in an elliptical shape. The square can fit tens of thousands of people on a busy day.
 
The pope will speak to the crowd on Sunday from the windows of his apartment in the Apostolic Palace.
 
For his final general audience on Wednesday, the outgoing pontiff will speak from the square itself.
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Title: Re: Pope Benedict RESIGNING
Post by: grace-land on February 25, 2013, 01:20:15 PM
http://www.catholicnewsagency.com/news/pope-benedict-says-he-is-not-abandoning-the-church/

Pope Benedict says he is not 'abandoning the Church'

Vatican City, Feb 24, 2013 / 05:05 am (CNA/EWTN News).- Around 120,000 pilgrims heard Pope Benedict XVI deliver his last Angelus address, in which he said that “the Lord called me to ‘climb the mountain,’ to devote myself even more to prayer and meditation,” a change that does not mean he is “abandoning the Church.”
 
“Dear brothers and sisters,” the Pope said as he dwelt on the Sunday Gospel on the Transfiguration, “the Word of God feels particularly directed at me, at this point in my life. The Lord called me to ‘climb the mountain,’ to devote myself even more to prayer and meditation.”
 
“But this does not mean abandoning the Church,” he qualified, “indeed, if God asks me this it is just so that I can continue to serve with the same dedication and the same love with which I have done so far, but in a way more suited to my age and for me.”
 
The Pope will be both physically and spiritually “climbing the mountain,” since the Mater Ecclesiae monastery where he will retire sits on the highest point in Vatican City with a view of the back of St. Peter’s Basilica and then the rest of Rome.
 
When he mentioned how the Gospel felt directed at him, the crowd reacted with applause that echoed through an overflowing St. Peter’s Square.
 ::snipping2::
A translation of the Pope’s full remarks follows.
 ::snipping2::


Title: Re: Pope Benedict RESIGNING
Post by: grace-land on February 25, 2013, 01:29:30 PM
http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/world-europe-21573157

25 February 2013 Last updated at 08:34 ET
Pope Benedict XVI amends Roman Catholic conclave law

Pope Benedict XVI has amended Roman Catholic church law so that the conclave selecting his successor can be brought forward, the Vatican says.

The change to the constitution means cardinals will no longer have to wait 15 days after the papacy becomes vacant before beginning the conclave.

As a result, the conclave can now start before 15 March.

Pope Benedict XVI's resignation, the first by a pope in nearly 600 years, takes effect on Thursday 28 February.

His decision surprised many within the Catholic Church.

"I leave the College of Cardinals the possibility to bring forward the start of the conclave once all cardinals are present, or push the beginning of the election back by a few days should there be serious reasons," the Pope said in a statement read by his spokesman, Father Federico Lombardi.

Vatican officials explained that the change was partly due to the fact that the church constitution was written principally for a conclave following the death of a pope, rather than a resignation.

Easter rush
 
The decision on the date of the beginning of the conclave will be taken by the cardinals but will not happen earlier than 1 March, officials said.
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Title: Re: Pope Benedict RESIGNING
Post by: grace-land on February 25, 2013, 01:35:13 PM
http://www.nationalreview.com/corner/341455/holy-roman-reforming-getting-down-business-future-kathryn-jean-lopez

Holy Roman Reforming: Getting Down to the Business of the Future
February 25, 2013 11:41 A.M.

George Weigel’s new book, Evangelical Catholicism: Deep Reform in the 21st-Century Church (Basic Books), seems destined to be a reference point in the papal interregnum that begins at 2 p.m., New York time on February 28, and well into the new pontificate. I caught up with Weigel, who has been in Rome since Ash Wednesday, to pose some questions about the conclave, the state of the Church, and the analysis of Evangelical Catholicism:
 
KATHRYN JEAN LOPEZ: By Pope Benedict XVI publicly acknowledging problems inside the Vatican is he giving guidance to the cardinals gathering in Rome this week?
 
GEORGE WEIGEL: The pope has mentioned these problems more than once, although no one seems to have noticed until the world’s attention suddenly became riveted on Rome and the Vatican. Benedict XVI has no intention of “giving guidance” to the men who will elect his successor; he is too good a churchman, too humble a man, and too much a respecter of the conclave process to even think of doing something like that. But there is no doubt, here in Rome, that the dysfunction in the Vatican bureaucracy will be a major topic of the cardinals’ conversations before the conclave is enclosed. Benedict XVI was ill-served by men in whom he reposed trust and to whom he gave great authority, and everyone knows it — except, alas, those who ill-served him.
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Title: Re: Pope Benedict RESIGNING
Post by: grace-land on February 26, 2013, 12:08:12 PM
http://www.nytimes.com/2013/02/27/world/europe/benedict-xvi-to-keep-his-name-and-become-pope-emeritus.html?_r=0

Benedict XVI to Keep His Name and Become Pope Emeritus
Published: February 26, 2013

VATICAN CITY — Pope Benedict XVI will keep the name Benedict XVI and become the Roman pontiff emeritus or pope emeritus, the Vatican announced Tuesday, putting an end to days of speculation on how the pope will be addressed once he ceases to be the leader of the world’s 1.1 billion Roman Catholics on Thursday.

Benedict, the first pope to resign voluntarily in six centuries, will dress in a simple white cassock, forgoing the mozzetta, the elbow-length cape worn by some Catholic clergymen, the Vatican spokesman, the Rev. Federico Lombardi, told reporters at a news briefing.

And he will no longer wear the red shoes typically worn by popes, symbolizing the blood of the martyrs, Father Lombardi said, opting instead for a more quotidian brown. “Mexicans will be happy to know that the pope very much appreciated the shoes” he received as a gift last year in León, Mexico, he added. “He finds them very comfortable.” It was after the grueling trip in March 2012 that the pope began to seriously consider resigning, the Vatican said after the pope announced his resignation on Feb. 11.

Father Lombardi said the pope had decided on his couture in consultation with other Vatican officials. Benedict will also stop using the so-called fisherman’s ring to seal documents. It will be destroyed by the cardinal camerlengo, the acting head of state of Vatican City during the “sede vacante,” the canon law term used when the papacy is vacant.
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Title: Re: Pope Benedict RESIGNING
Post by: grace-land on February 26, 2013, 12:25:27 PM
http://www.al.com/living/index.ssf/2013/02/pope_benedict_xvi_gets_new_tit.html

Pope Benedict XVI gets new title this week: His Holiness Pontiff Emeritus
on February 26, 2013 at 6:50 AM, updated February 26, 2013 at 7:00 AM

Pope Benedict XVI will get a new title after his retirement becomes official on Thursday: Pontiff Emeritus. He will still be referred to with the honorary title, "His Holiness."
 
That's the latest word from Vatican spokesman Federico Lombardi today.
 
EWTN Global Catholic Network, based in Irondale, will broadcast Pope Benedict XVI's final papal audience from St. Peter's Square at the Vatican on Wednesday at 3 a.m. Central time.
::snipping2::


Title: Re: Pope Benedict RESIGNING
Post by: grace-land on February 26, 2013, 11:27:49 PM
http://wkzo.com/news/articles/2013/feb/26/pope-will-keep-title-his-holiness-after-resignation/

Pope praying, packing ahead of move out of Vatican
Tuesday, February 26, 2013 9:19 a.m. EST

ROME (Reuters) - Pope Benedict was praying and packing on Tuesday two days before his move out of the Vatican and into retirement where he will assume the title of "pope emeritus" and still be referred to as "your holiness".
 
The Vatican said Benedict was spending a quiet Tuesday in the apostolic palace with no audiences.
 
"Today is a day dedicated to prayer and preparation for the events of the next two days," Vatican spokesman Father Federico Lombardi said at a daily news briefing.
 
Lombardi said the pope was sifting through documents to see which will remain in the Vatican and go into the archives of his papacy and deciding which "are of a personal nature and which he will take to his new residence".
 
Among the documents left for the next pope will be a confidential report by three cardinals into the "Vatileaks" affair last year when Benedict's former butler leaked private papers revealing corruption and in-fighting inside the Vatican.
 
The new pope will inherit a Church marked by Vatileaks and by child abuse scandals by priests in Europe and the United States, both of which may have weighed on Benedict's decision to decide he was too old and weak to continue the papacy.
 
The pope has two days left before he takes the historic step of becoming the first pontiff in some six centuries to step down instead of ruling for life.
 
Given the unique nature of the occasion, Vatican officials have had to find a title for the former pope, decide how he should be addressed and what he should wear.
 
After two weeks of consultations with aides, theologians and historians, the Vatican announced the status Benedict will assume after he is no longer leader of the 1.2 billion-member Roman Catholic Church.
 
Benedict will be known as "pope emeritus Benedict XVI" or "Roman Pontiff emeritus Benedict XVI", be addresses as "Your Holiness," and be referred to as "His Holiness Benedict XVI".
 
This means that after the election of the new pope next month there will be two men with the title "holiness" in the Vatican at the same time.
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Title: Re: Pope Benedict RESIGNING
Post by: grace-land on February 27, 2013, 12:55:59 AM
http://www.patriotledger.com/news/x1433788695/Catholic-TV-to-show-Pope-Benedicts-final-audience-live-on-Wednesday

Catholic TV to show Pope Benedict's final audience live on Wednesday
Posted Feb 26, 2013 @ 04:32 PM
Last update Feb 26, 2013 @ 05:00 PM

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A live stream may also be viewed at any time from any computer or device at www.CatholicTV.com

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Title: Re: Pope Benedict RESIGNING
Post by: grace-land on February 27, 2013, 02:25:53 AM
Press Release

http://abcnews.go.com/blogs/headlines/2013/02/abc-news-announces-special-coverage-of-the-farewell-to-pope-benedict-xvi/

ABC News Announces Special Coverage of “The Farewell to Pope Benedict XVI”
Feb 26, 2013 3:39pm

George Stephanopoulos to Anchor ABC News Special Reports from the Vatican on Thursday, February 28 at 5:00AM ET and 10:45AM  ET
 
The Powerhouse Team of Terry Moran, David Wright, Ron Claiborne, Cokie Roberts and Christiane Amanpour Join Coverage for All Broadcasts and Platforms
 
This week ABC News will cover all the pageantry and ceremonial events leading up to the Pope’s historic resignation. ABC News will provide extensive coverage on “Good Morning America,” “World News with Diane Sawyer,” “Nightline,” ABC News Radio and its digital platforms as Pope Benedict XVI says farewell in Rome, Italy.
 
On Thursday, February 28 ABC News will broadcast a special report to the ABC Television Network at approximately 5:00 am ET and 10:45 am ET, marking the final events of Pope Benedict’s papacy.  George Stephanopoulos will anchor from the Vatican. “Nightline” co-anchor Terry Moran, David Wright, Ron Claiborne, Cokie Roberts, and ABC News Global Affairs anchor Christiane Amanpour will join Stephanopoulos in Rome. Wright covered the death of Pope John Paul II and the selection of Pope Benedict XVI for ABC News in 2005. Cokie Roberts, whose mother served as the U.S. Ambassador to the Vatican, will provide historical perspective throughout ABC’s coverage.
 
Stephanopoulos will co-anchor “Good Morning America” from the Vatican on Wednesday, February 27 and Thursday, February 28. Moran will anchor “Nightline” from Rome on Wednesday and Thursday.
 
In March when the cardinal electors convene for the conclave to elect a new pope, Diane Sawyer will lead ABC News’ coverage from Rome. More information on ABC’s coverage of the conclave will be announced in the coming weeks.
 
ABC News Digital will provide complete, live-streamed coverage of the farewell to Pope Benedict XVI beginning with the ABC News Special Report at 5:00am ET, followed by live coverage of the Pope’s departure from the Vatican at approximately 10:45am ET. Special live stream coverage will be available throughout the day across ABCNews.com, Yahoo! News, GoodMorningAmerica.com, ABC News’ iPad & iPhone apps, ABC affiliate websites, ABC News Mobile properties as well as on the ABC News YouTube channel. Editorial content will include live blog updates, video highlights and interactive slideshows featuring the top cardinal contenders, factoids and embedded 3-D animations of the Vatican and the Sistine Chapel.
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Title: Re: Pope Benedict RESIGNING
Post by: grace-land on February 27, 2013, 11:53:58 AM
http://www.huffingtonpost.com/2013/02/27/pope-benedict-xvi-last-general-audience-at-vatican-livestream_n_2768699.html#slide=2160316

Pope Benedict XVI Last General Audience At Vatican (PHOTOS) (VIDEO) (FULL TEXT)
Posted: 02/27/2013 2:41 am EST  |  Updated: 02/27/2013 6:57 am EST



Title: Re: Pope Benedict RESIGNING
Post by: grace-land on February 27, 2013, 07:56:09 PM
Video and Slideshow at link

http://www.nytimes.com/2013/02/28/world/europe/pope-benedict-XVI-final-general-audience.html?_r=0

Pope Evokes Difficult and Joyous Moments in Final General Audience
Published: February 27, 2013

VATICAN CITY — He circumnavigated St. Peter’s Square in the popemobile for the last time. He gave his final waves to cheering masses. And most profoundly, Pope Benedict XVI bestowed his valedictory words to the world in a heartfelt, sometimes wistful address that highlighted the price of being a pope — and its rays of happiness.

His eight-year papacy held moments of “joy and light,” at times resembling the boat carrying Peter and the other apostles on the Sea of Galilee, enjoying many days of sun, gentle breezes and abundant fish, Benedict told tens of thousands of people during his general audience, which was moved to a sun-soaked St. Peter’s Square from the usual auditorium to accommodate the crowd.

“There were also moments in which the waters were agitated and the wind contrary,” he said. “The Lord seemed to be sleeping.”

Benedict, 85, resigns on Thursday, exiting the papacy at 8 p.m. In the morning, he meets the cardinals who will elect his successor sometime next month. At 5 p.m. a helicopter will fly him to his summer residence, Castel Gandolfo, where he is expected to wave to well-wishers and utter a few words. By 8:01 p.m., he will have the title “pope emeritus.”.

Church officials said 150,000 people gathered in St. Peter’s Square on Wednesday. They waved flags, applauded and chanted “Benedetto” under a brilliant blue sky, as the pope, clad in a white, double-breasted overcoat, spoke to them mainly in Italian but also gave brief remarks in other languages. The popemobile halted several times so its occupant could kiss babies handed up to him.

In the most personal part of his speech, Benedict drove home a central truth for any world-renowned figure, much less a pontiff: Privacy does not exist — a message that could be considered a warning to his successor.
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Title: Re: Pope Benedict RESIGNING
Post by: grace-land on February 27, 2013, 08:32:41 PM
http://www.cbsnews.com/8301-505263_162-57571519/pope-benedict-xvi-tells-faithful-hes-well-aware-of-gravity-of-his-resignation-in-final-public-address/

February 27, 2013 7:39 AM
Pope Benedict XVI tells faithful he's well aware of gravity of his resignation in final public address

(http://i.i.com.com/cnwk.1d/i/tim/2013/02/27/pope_last_audience_162787601_620x350.jpg)
Pope Benedict XVI waves from the altar as he arrives on St. Peter's square for his last weekly audience, Feb. 27, 2013 at the Vatican. (Getty)


Title: Re: Pope Benedict RESIGNING
Post by: grace-land on February 27, 2013, 10:13:39 PM
http://www.catholicnewsagency.com/news/atheist-nobel-prize-winner-mourns-popes-retirement/

Atheist Nobel prize winner mourns Pope's retirement
Lima, Peru, Feb 27, 2013 / 12:41 pm (CNA/EWTN News).- An atheist Peruvian author has praised the spiritual and intellectual stature of Pope Benedict XVI and said that his departure is a loss for the cultural and spiritual life of the world.
 
“I don’t know why Benedict XVI’s abdication has been such a surprise,” said Mario Vargas Llosa, a Nobel laureate in literature and a self-proclaimed atheist opposed to the moral teachings of the Church.
 
“Although it is unusual, it was not unpredictable,” he said of the Holy Father’s announcement earlier this month that he would be resigning on Feb. 28 due to advanced age and declining strength.
 
“You could tell just by looking at how fragile he was and how lost he seemed among the crowds in which his office required that he immerse himself,” Vargas Llosa said in a column published by the Spanish daily El Pais.
 
The Peruvian author observed that the Holy Father’s “profound and unique reflections were based on his enormous theological, philosophical, historical and literary knowledge, acquired in the dozen classic and modern languages he commanded.”
 
While they were “always conceived within Christian orthodoxy,” the Pope’s “books and encyclicals often went beyond the strictly dogmatic and contained novel and bold reflections on the moral, cultural and existential problems of our times,” Vargas Llosa reflected.
 
He went on to note that Benedict XVI’s papacy spanned “one of the most difficult periods that Christianity has faced in its more than 2000 year history.”
 
“The secularization of society is progressing with great speed,” he said, “especially in the West, the citadel of the Church until relatively just a few decades ago.”
 
“Benedict XVI,” Vargas Llosa added, “was the first Pope to ask forgiveness for the sexual abuse that has taken place in Catholic schools and seminaries, to meet with victims’ associations.”
 
The Holy Father also convened “the first Church conference devoted to listening to the testimonies of the victims themselves and to establishing norms and rules to prevent such evils from occurring again in the future,” he said.
 
It would therefore be a mistake to celebrate the Pontiff’s resignation “as a victory of progress and freedom,” the author explained.
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Title: Re: Pope Benedict RESIGNING
Post by: Sister on February 28, 2013, 08:59:15 AM
great article -- an atheist, but apparently open minded.
Thanks for sharing grace-land.
I know about the privacy issues -- even in my little corner of the world.  And they're not just personal, but spiritual as well.


Title: Re: Pope Benedict RESIGNING
Post by: grace-land on February 28, 2013, 10:39:58 AM
great article -- an atheist, but apparently open minded.
Thanks for sharing grace-land.
I know about the privacy issues -- even in my little corner of the world.  And they're not just personal, but spiritual as well.

You're welcome, Sister.  I was surprised by the article--an atheist paying tribute to a pope, a Christian, in such a public way.



Title: Re: Pope Benedict RESIGNING
Post by: grace-land on February 28, 2013, 10:48:50 AM
http://www.nytimes.com/2013/03/01/world/europe/pope-benedict-xvi.html

On Final Day as Pope, Benedict Pledges Loyalty to Successor
Published: February 28, 2013

(http://graphics8.nytimes.com/images/2013/02/28/world/europe/29pope/29pope-articleLarge.jpg)
This photograph released by the Vatican on Thursday shows Pope Benedict XVI speaking to cardinals in the Vatican's Clementine Hall. More Photos »

VATICAN CITY — In his final hours as head of the Roman Catholic Church, Pope Benedict XVI met on Thursday with the cardinals who will elect his successor, urging them to be “like an orchestra” that harmonizes for the good of the church and pledging that he would behave with “unconditional reverence and obedience” toward his successor.
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Title: Re: Pope Benedict RESIGNING
Post by: grace-land on February 28, 2013, 01:06:09 PM
Continuous videos at link

http://worldnews.nbcnews.com/_news/2013/02/28/17129365-thank-you-for-your-friendship-benedict-leaves-vatican-for-final-time-as-pope

Updated 32 minutes ago
'Thank you for your friendship': Benedict leaves Vatican for final time as pope

To a chorus of bells and a ripple of applause from his closest advisers, Pope Benedict XVI departed the Vatican for the last time as pontiff Thursday.

He emerged from the Apostolic Palace and was saluted by Cardinal Tarcisio Bertone, the Vatican secretary of state, and other senior staff members in the St. Damaso Courtyard before being driven to his helicopter for the journey to his lavish temporary residence.

A crowd of well-wishers was waiting to greet him from the piazza when he arrived at Castel Gandolfo, which is about 20 miles south-east of Rome.

They chanted his name in Italian and cheered wildly as he appeared from the balcony of the building. Some were moved to tears.

"Thank you for your friendship," he said. "I am just a pilgrim."

To coincide with his 5 p.m. local time (11 a.m ET) departure, a final message was posted to the pontiff's official Twitter account.

"Thank you for your love and support," it said. "May you always experience the joy that comes from putting Christ at the centre of your lives."
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Title: Re: Pope Benedict RESIGNING
Post by: grace-land on February 28, 2013, 01:40:58 PM
http://news.blogs.cnn.com/2013/02/28/pope-benedict-bids-goodbye-to-cardinals/comment-page-2/

February 28th, 2013  01:05 PM ET
Benedict: I'm 'simply a pilgrim' now

[Updated at 1:05 p.m. ET] We now have an official English translation of what Benedict said in his last public appearance as pope, from the balcony of the papal retreat in Castel Gandolfo:
 
"Dear friends,
 
"I am happy to be with you, surrounded by the beauty of Creation and your well wishes, which do me such good. Thank you for your friendship and your affection.
 
"You know that this day is different for me than the preceding ones. I am no longer the Supreme Pontiff of the Catholic Church, or I will be until 8 this evening and then no longer. I am simply a pilgrim beginning the last leg of his pilgrimage on this earth. But I would still [applause] ... thank you ... I would still – with my heart, with my love, with my prayers, with my reflection, and with all my inner strength – like to work for the common good and the good of the church and of humanity. I feel very supported by your kindness. Let us go forward with the Lord for the good of the church and the world. Thank you. I now wholeheartedly impart my blessing.
 
"Blessed be God Almighty, Father, Son, and Holy Spirit. Good night! Thank you all!"
 
We should note that although Benedict said he was no longer pope, he officially will be the pontiff until 2 p.m ET (8 p.m. in Rome).
 ::snipping2::


Title: Re: Pope Benedict RESIGNING
Post by: grace-land on February 28, 2013, 02:33:08 PM
http://www.guardian.co.uk/world/gallery/2013/feb/28/pope-benedict-last-day-in-pictures

Pope Benedict XVI's last day in office - in pictures
Pope Benedict XVI boarded a helicopter to fly to the papal summer residence, Castel Gandolfo. He will stay there until renovations are complete at a monastery in the grounds of the Vatican
Thursday 28 February 2013 13.32 EST



Title: Re: Pope Benedict RESIGNING
Post by: grace-land on February 28, 2013, 02:57:23 PM
http://www.foxnews.com/world/2013/02/28/benedict-begins-final-day-as-pope-before-retiring/

Benedict XVI's papacy ends, first pope to retire in 600 years
Published February 28, 2013

Benedict XVI has become the first pope in 600 years to resign, ending an eight-year pontificate.
 
The Swiss Guards standing at attention in Castel Gandolfo shut the gates of the palazzo shortly after 8 p.m. Thursday, symbolically closing the doors on a papacy whose legacy will most be marked by the way it ended -- a resignation instead of a death.
 
The Swiss Guards will now go off duty, their service protecting the head of the Catholic Church over -- for now.
 
Vatican spokesman Rev. Federico Lombardi said the guards would change into civilian clothes and return to the Vatican barracks Thursday night. They will continue to guard the entrances of Vatican City and the pope's palace, "even if he's not there," said Cpl. Urs Breitenmoser, a Swiss Guard spokesman
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Title: Re: Pope Benedict RESIGNING
Post by: grace-land on February 28, 2013, 05:16:34 PM
http://www.washingtonpost.com/national/on-faith/pope-benedict-xvi-leaves-office-promises-obedience-to-successor/2013/02/28/a82cae72-81e5-11e2-a671-0307392de8de_story.html

Pope Benedict XVI leaves office, promises ‘obedience’ to successor
Updated: Thursday, February 28, 2:30 PM

 ::snipping2::
In his retirement, Benedict said he intends to live “hidden from the world.”

Earlier Thursday, Benedict had promised “unconditional” obedience to his successor during a farewell meeting with cardinals.

 “Among you, in the College of Cardinals, there is the future pope, to whom I promise my unconditional reverence and obedience,” he said in the last official act of his pontificate before his resignation.

There are expected to be 115 cardinals who are under age 80 and thus eligible to participate in the conclave to elect the next pope. The start date of the conclave will be decided by the daily cardinals’ meetings that govern the church until a new pope is elected. The first meeting is scheduled for Monday (March 4).

In his brief, unannounced address on Thursday morning, the pope also issued a renewed appeal for the church’s unity.

The College of Cardinals, he said, is “like an orchestra, where diversity, an expression of the universal church, always contributes to a superior harmony of concord.”

 “Let us remain united, dear brothers ... in prayer, especially in daily Eucharist, and thus serve the church and all humanity,” he added.

Benedict also promised to pray for the cardinals who will gather in the coming weeks in a closed-door conclave to elect his successor.

The Vatican’s chief spokesman, the Rev. Federico Lombardi, stressed that while Benedict was in no way obliged to pledge obedience to his successor, it was a “beautiful gesture” to reaffirm that “he has no intention of interfering” with the action of the future pope.


Title: Re: Pope Benedict RESIGNING
Post by: grace-land on February 28, 2013, 05:25:16 PM
http://www.huffingtonpost.com/2013/02/28/sede-vacante-papal-conclave_n_2777332.html

Sede Vacante And Papal Conclave At The Vatican: What's Next After Pope Benedict XVI Steps Down
Posted: 02/28/2013 10:17 am EST  |  Updated: 02/28/2013 4:59 pm EST

As of 8 p.m. in Italy -- 2 p.m. on the U.S. East Coast and not long after landing via helicopter at his retreat at Castel Gandolfo -- Pope Benedict XVI will become the "pope emeritus" and the Roman Catholic Church will enter the sede vacante, the period between papacies.

The rare and relatively short time -- it only lasted 17 days after Pope John Paul II died and is expected to be even shorter after Benedict's retirement, since there's no death to mourn -- leaves many levels of the complex Vatican government temporarily dissolved until a new pope is selected in a closed-door election called the papal conclave.

During this period, it's up to the College of Cardinals, plus a few additional Vatican officials, to keep the heart of the church running.

The "Universi Dominici Gregis," a set of guidelines released in 1996 by John Paul, says the Vatican offices that remain active during the sede vacante include the vicar of Rome, who oversees everyday matters the local Roman church and the Major Penitentiary, who deals with what are called "matters of mercy," such as confessions, absolutions and dispensations. The camerlengo (Tarcisio Bertone, also the pope's deputy until he officially steps down) and an office called the Apostolic Chamber are left to oversee the state's finances and property, with an auditor general and a vice camerlengo assisting.

On Friday, the first official day of the sede vacante, Angelo Sodano, an Italian who is the College of Cardinals' dean, will formally invite cardinals to Rome to start their post-pope meetings. Most or all will already be in the city, from the former pope's last meeting with them. The general congregations, a series of daily meetings that are a mix church business as well as chances to get to know and learn about each other (and scope out the potential next pope), are expected to start Monday
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Title: Re: Pope Benedict RESIGNING
Post by: grace-land on March 01, 2013, 01:03:59 PM
http://www.catholicworldreport.com/Blog/2033/some_details_on_benedict_xvis_first_day_of_retirement.aspx

Some details on Benedict XVI’s first day of retirement
March 01, 2013 10:11 EST

I doubt we’ll get these kinds of details very often in the coming weeks, months, and years – so here is an interesting glimpse into how Pope Emeritus Benedict XVI plans to spend his days of retirement. One thing it doesn’t appear to include: sleeping in. From Vatican Information Service:
 
Today, as always, His Holiness celebrated Mass at 7:00am and then prayed the Liturgy of the Hours. In the afternoon he has another walk planned at 4:00pm, through the gardens of the Castel Gandolfo Apostolic Palace, to pray the rosary. Benedict XVI brought with him various books on theology, history, and spirituality. At the moment he is reading from a book by the Swiss theologian Hans Urs von Balthazar.
 ::snipping2::

 


Title: Re: Pope Benedict RESIGNING
Post by: grace-land on March 01, 2013, 01:06:48 PM
http://www.catholicnews.com/data/stories/cns/1300929.htm

Mar-1-2013
Pope Benedict begins emeritus life; cardinals begin 'sede vacante' jobs

 ::snipping2::
Meanwhile, back at the Vatican, officials from the College of Cardinals had a series of tasks to perform at the beginning of the "sede vacante," the period when there is no pope.

The most symbolic tasks were carried out by Cardinal Tarcisio Bertone, the camerlengo or chamberlain of the Holy Roman Church, and his assistants. During the sede vacante, the chamberlain is charged with administering and safeguarding the temporal goods of the church.

Gathered with others in the offices of the "apostolic chamber," Cardinal Bertone asked the time. At 8 p.m. exactly he was handed a "ferula," a red velvet-covered scepter, as a sign of his authority. The cardinal led the staff in a brief prayer to God: "Give your church a pope acceptable to you."

Carrying the ferula, he and his aides went into the private papal apartments. They made sure the door to the small private elevator was locked, then stretched tape across the elevator door and stamped it with seals.

Withdrawing from the apartment, they dead-bolted the main door with a large key, then strung a red ribbon through the handles. An aide, using a glue gun, sealed the ribbon's knot.

The next day, Archbishop Pier Luigi Celata, vice chamberlain, went to the seldom-used papal apartments at the Basilica of St. John Lateran, the pope's cathedral, and sealed those as well, Father Lombardi said.

Cardinal Angelo Sodano, dean of the College of Cardinals, wrote almost immediately after 8 p.m. to Vatican nuncios and other diplomatic representatives around the world, officially informing them of the sede vacante.

In one of his first acts as dean March 1, Cardinal Sodano wrote to each of the world's 207 cardinals -- including those over age 80 and ineligible to vote in a conclave -- notifying them of "the vacancy of the Apostolic See because of the renunciation presented on the part of Pope Benedict XVI."

He also asked them to come to the Vatican to begin the pre-conclave meetings, known as general congregations, March 4 at 9:30 a.m.

The general congregations will continue until all the cardinal-electors, including those under 80, are present in Rome, "and then the College of Cardinals will decide the date to enter into conclave" to elect a pope, he said.

Asked whether Cardinal Sodano was saying that a conclave date would not be set until all the cardinal-electors were present or accounted for, Father Lombardi said the letter "does not have the weight of law," but he expected the cardinals would not vote on a conclave date until most of them were present and had time to talk and meet formally.


Title: Re: Pope Benedict RESIGNING
Post by: grace-land on March 01, 2013, 01:19:01 PM
http://www.dnaindia.com/world/report_dalai-lama-saddened-by-resignation-of-pope-benedict-xvii_1806067

Dalai Lama saddened by resignation of Pope Benedict XVII
Published: Friday, Mar 1, 2013, 11:13 IST

Tibetan spiritual leader the Dalai Lama has said that he is saddened by the resignation of Pope Benedict XVII.

The Dalai Lama extended solidarity to the pontiff, while praying for his good health on Thursday.

"Firstly (I am) little bit sad, I know him and he is a very intelligent one, but then naturally he is a religious practitioner, and in the meantime very intelligent. So his decision must be realistic, for the greater benefit to concern the people.

“So I pray his remaining life still will be very useful for all, remains a good example and his own practice I think there is no question- is very successful," said the Dalai Lama, on the sidelines of an event in Dharamsala.
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Title: Re: Pope Benedict RESIGNING
Post by: grace-land on March 03, 2013, 12:25:51 AM
http://ktla.com/2013/03/02/cardinals-converge-on-vatican-for-papal-conclave/#axzz2MPlsLEic

Cardinals Converge on Vatican for Papal Conclave
10 hours ago

ROME (CNN) — The cardinals who will elect the new pope following the historic resignation of Benedict XVI are continuing to make their way to Rome, the Vatican said Saturday (Mar. 2), with some likely to arrive only Monday or Tuesday.
 
The first of a series of meetings known as general congregations takes place Monday morning — and a priority for the cardinals attending will be setting a date for the special election, or conclave, held to pick the next pope.
 
The Vatican has said it’s not sure whether a date will be agreed on as soon as Monday.
 
If cardinals are still arriving as the general congregations start, the timetable may be delayed.
 
The cardinals will also hold important discussions on the future direction of the Roman Catholic Church, which has been beset by scandal in recent years, and the kind of leader they want to see at the helm.
 
All the cardinals attend the general congregations, but only cardinals who are younger than 80 are eligible to vote for the new pope in the conclave. They are expected to number 115, the Vatican has said.
 
Vatican spokesman the Rev. Federico Lombardi said Saturday that 75 cardinals normally live in Rome and another 66 have arrived or are in the process of arriving, making 141 in total.
 
Most of the cardinals who live in Rome are retired and/or over the age of 80, and therefore are not entitled to vote for the new pope.
 
It’s not clear how many of the cardinals now in Rome are among those who can vote.
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Title: Re: Pope Benedict RESIGNING
Post by: grace-land on March 04, 2013, 02:05:09 PM
Two-page article

http://www.northjersey.com/news/international/194928101_Cardinals_hold_first_meeting_but_don_t_set_date_for_conclave.html

Cardinals hold first meeting but don't set date for conclave
Monday March 4, 2013, 12:41 PM

VATICAN CITY (RNS) Roman Catholic cardinals on Monday (March 4) met for the first of a series of closed-door meetings in the run-up to the conclave that will elect the successor to former Pope Benedict XVI.

But as cardinals filed into a Vatican conference room under the gaze of dozens of cameras, church officials said 12 voting prelates still haven't arrived in Rome, pushing back the possibility of an early start to the conclave.

The late-comers include three cardinals from Benedict's native Germany, as well cardinals from Europe, Asia and Africa.

The Vatican's chief spokesman, the Rev. Federico Lombardi, said 142 cardinals out of a total of 207 took part in the first so-called General Congregation on Monday morning.

Among them, 103 were under 80 and thus eligible to be among the 115 cardinals who will vote for the new pope in the Sistine Chapel.
 ::snipping2::
------------------------

Video at link. 

http://thelede.blogs.nytimes.com/2013/03/04/video-of-cardinals-arriving-to-choose-benedicts-successor/
March 4, 2013
Video of Cardinals Arriving to Choose Benedict’s Successor


Title: Re: Pope Benedict RESIGNING
Post by: grace-land on March 04, 2013, 02:16:24 PM
Photos--and bio information of 19 cardinals taken from the Vatican website

http://abclocal.go.com/kgo/gallery?section=news/national_world&id=9014728&photo=1

Photos: Cardinals who could replace Benedict XVI
Slideshow posted in National/World | Monday, March 04, 2013
-------------------
http://www.vatican.va/phome_en.htm


Title: Re: Pope Benedict RESIGNING
Post by: grace-land on March 04, 2013, 03:00:45 PM
Two cardinals share their experiences during the 2005 conclave which elected Pope Benedict XVI.

http://www.catholicsun.org/2013/03/04/prayer-and-trembling-cardinals-recount-experience-of-conclave/

Prayer and trembling: Cardinals recount experience of conclave
Catholic News Service | March 4, 2013

VATICAN CITY (CNS) — Chanting the Litany of the Saints, asking a host of holy men and women to help them, the cardinals enter the Sistine Chapel in procession, aware of their enormous responsibility to elect a new pope.
 
Less than half of the 117 cardinals eligible to vote for a successor to Pope Benedict XVI were in the 2005 conclave that elected him.
 
Two of those that were — Honduran Cardinal Oscar Rodriguez Maradiaga of Tegucigalpa and South African Cardinal Wilfrid Napier — described the scene as being one of deep prayer and some trembling.
 
Cardinal Rodriguez Maradiaga told Catholic News Service that, during the conclave, the cardinals spend most of their time in the Sistine Chapel, even though they cast ballots only four times a day.
 
The time in the chapel includes prayer, writing names on ballots and counting them. But when casting each vote, each cardinal must stand and publicly swear, in Latin, that he is voting according to his conscience. With 115 cardinal-electors expected, that will take time.
 
“In front of the crucifix and in front of the ‘Final Judgment’ painting, we say, ‘I call Jesus as a witness, and he will judge me that I have elected according to my conscience,’ so you can imagine … why it takes so long. And in the meantime, when everybody is casting their votes, we are praying, so it is like a big cenacle of prayer.”
 
“This is beautiful,” Cardinal Rodriguez Maradiaga said. “This is the most loving experience, how an election should be. I wish all the elections in the world could be like that: in an atmosphere of prayer.”
 
Cardinal Napier told CNS that even the way the cardinals are dressed — in choir dress like they dress for liturgies — contributes to the atmosphere of prayer.
 
Although he has the experience of the 2005 conclave, he said, “It’s probably going to be just as frightening, just as (much) anxiety” this time, especially because “I’d say there’s a wider field of choices, there are younger cardinals who I believe have real qualities of leadership. At the same time perhaps we don’t know each other that well, but we have to put a lot of faith in the presence and activity in the Holy Spirit.”
 
Cardinal Napier said that when the cardinals arrive in the chapel, they make a formal vow of secrecy, then each cardinal goes up and puts a hand on the Bible, confirming his oath.
 
Once each cardinal sits down, he said, he thinks “this is it,” and sees on his table the list of names of the cardinals, the ballot paper, the instructions and a small biography of each cardinal.
 
“Then you know you really are about to get down to business very soon,” he said. There is “a sense of excitement, a sense of anxiety,” wondering “how is it all going to work out?”
 
“But probably the most solemn, the most difficult, frightening (moment) is when you go with your ballot paper in your hand and hold it up in front of the altar and say, ‘I call on the Lord Jesus, who will be my judge, to witness that I am voting for the one I believe to be worthy.’
 
“That’s really a moment of intense emotion, faith, all these emotions come together at that point. If I’m voting for unworthy reasons I’m actually asking Jesus to judge me, to condemn me, so it’s a very, very solemn moment,” Cardinal Napier said.
 
After each cardinal casts his ballot, the papers are opened and read out, one by one, he said. Since each cardinal has a complete list of cardinals, “you’re ticking off as the votes are being cast for one person or another and then totting it up at the end.”
 
If no candidate has reached the two-thirds required for a valid election, the ballots and all the lists with their counts “are all gathered and taken to the back of the chapel to be burned. The smoke goes up black (for no pope). It’s very touching,” the South African cardinal said.
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Title: Re: Pope Benedict RESIGNING
Post by: grace-land on March 05, 2013, 01:16:10 PM
Daily press briefing by Fr. Federico Lombardi

http://en.radiovaticana.va/news/2013/03/05/general_congregations:_no_rush_to_fix_date_for_conclave/en1-670549

2013-03-05 15:41:14
General congregations: No rush to fix date for Conclave

Vatican Radio) As of Tuesday morning 110 cardinal electors are present in Rome . Five cardinal electors arrived late Monday evening taking their oath of secrecy during the second general congregation, two more on Tuesday morning. They are Spanish cardinal Rouco Varela and Polish cardinal Grocholewski, meaning five cardinal electors have yet to arrive before a date for conclave can be set. The cardinals yet to arrive are Naguib, Pham, Nycz, Lehmann and Tong. Emer McCarthy reports Listen: 

In the daily press briefing, Fr. Federico Lombardi also told journlists that the cardinals are in "no rush" to fix a date for Conclave and that tomorrow Wednesday at 5pm Rome time, the Universal Church is called to prayer for the cardinal electors as they approach this monumental task.

Fr. Lombardi noted there were 11 interventions Tuesday morning, by various cardinals both heads of the Roman Curia and its dicasteries and local bishops representing all 5 continents, expressing the universality of the Church. The cardinals, he said ‘sign up’ to make an intervention. 33 cardinals have thus fare made interventions.

These interventions focused on Holy See activities, different dicasteries and their relations with local bishops around the world, the renewal of the Church in light of Vatican II, the New Evangelization, the Church and new cultures.

Fr. Lombardi noted that another issues under discussion Tuesday morning was the Constitution governing the Vacant See and papal transition and how it was modified by the Motu Proprio. Fr. Lombardi said note no. 37 was discussed and the issue of bringing forward the date of the start of Conclave remains ‘open’, no proposal has been made.

Fr. Lombardi, one of the few people present during the Congregations, but not directly involved, added that he sensed that the Cardinals want to “understand how long is needed to properly prepare for such an important event without hurrying things in anyway”.

He added that the fact that the Cardinals have opted not to hold afternoon sessions Tuesday and Wednesday in the general congregations is “significant” of the cardinals intention to take their time.

The general congregation also approved a moment of Universal prayer established for Wednesday afternoon at 5pm at the Altar of the Chair in St. Peter’s basilica. The liturgy will include Vespers and the adoration of the Blessed Sacrament. It will be presided by the Cardinal Dean, Angelo Sodano.

Moreover, Tuesday afternoon the Sistine Chapel closes to visitors as the Vatican workers begin to prepare it for Conclave.
The College of Cardinals also approved the final text of a message sent on behalf of the cardinals to Pope emeritus, Benedict XVI. In conclusion, the text of a telegram for Pope Emeritus Benedict XVI, which was signed by Cardinal Dean Sodano, was approved. It reads: “To His Holiness, Pope Emeritus Benedict XVI, Castel Gandolfo.”

“The Cardinal Fathers, gathered at the Vatican for the General Congregations in view of the next conclave, send you their devoted greetings and express their renewed gratitude for all your illustrious Petrine ministry and for your example of generous pastoral care for the good of the Church and of the world. With their gratitude they hope to represent the recognition of the entire Church for your tireless work in the vineyard of the Lord. In conclusion, the members of the College of Cardinals trust in your prayers for them, as well as for the whole Church.”

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Title: Re: Pope Benedict RESIGNING
Post by: MuffyBee on March 06, 2013, 08:51:50 AM
http://www.usatoday.com/story/news/world/2013/03/06/pope-conclave-cardinals-vatican/1966591/
Talkative U.S. cardinals shut down the 'American show'
March 6, 2013


 ::snipping2::
The day after stories in world media that the U.S. leaders daily press conference, mobbed with reporters, were exerting influence in the advisory meetings now underway, the Wednesday conference was cancelled.

Tuesday, the Associated Press had described the scene with more than 100 journalists from the US, Britain and European countries "packing an auditorium for what has become the daily 'American Show' at the North American College, the U.S. seminary just up the hill from the Vatican."

Sister Mary Ann Walsh, spokeswoman for the U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops, said in a statement, "Concern was expressed" in the daily meetings of the College of Cardinals "about leaks of confidential proceedings reported in Italian newspapers. As a precaution, the cardinals have agreed not to do interviews."

Lombardi said the Vatican did not intervene to shut down the show but that cardinals make that decision talking among themselves.

No date has been set for the conclave, where 115 cardinal electors will be cut off from any communication with the outside world.

At the morning Vatican press conference, spokesman Rev. Frederico Lombardi said there's no hidden meaning in the delay. They are waiting for two more electors -- cardinals under the age of 80 -- to reach Rome and they are in a "journey" of prayer and discernment, he said.

Meanwhile, representatives from the Survivors Network of Those Abused by Priests (SNAP) called a press conference in Rome to announce a "dirty dozen" names of cardinals whose record on dealing with the abuse crisis disqualifies them for voting for the pope or being elected to the papacy. The list includes many of the names on top of media and betting site short lists for the next pope.
 ::snipping2::


Title: Re: Pope Benedict RESIGNING
Post by: grace-land on March 06, 2013, 09:33:57 PM
Daily press briefing by Fr. Federico Lombardi, Wednesday, March 6, 2013

http://en.radiovaticana.va/news/2013/03/06/general_congregations:_profile_of_future_pope_emerging_from_sessions/en1-670821

2013-03-06 13:29:02     
General congregations: Profile of future Pope emerging from sessions

Vatican Radio) The fourth general congregation got underway Wednesday morning at 09:30 with 153 Cardinals present. Four more cardinals arrived in Rome overnight, three of them cardinal electors, cardinal Lehman from Germany, the Egyptian cardinal Naguib, and from Hong Kong cardinal Tong Hon. This brings the number of cardinal electors present in Rome to 113, with two cardinals still to arrive, cardinal Nycz from Warsaw (due to arrive Wednesday afternoon) and Vietnamese cardinal Pham (due to arrive Thursday). Emer McCarthy reports Listen: 

In the daily press briefing Vatican spokesman Fr. Federico Lombardi, who attends the Congregation sessions, revealed that birthday greetings were also exchanged for cardinals Kasper on his 80th birthday Tuesday and Coccopalmiero who is 75 Wednesday .

On Wednesday there were 18 interventions from different cardinals representing the Church in different parts of the world, for a total of 51 thus far. Due to the large number of people wishing to speak a time frame of 5 minutes was established for each intervention.

The order of interventions, noted Fr. Lombardi, is not selected according to geographical origins or precedence. The main themes discussed were: the Church in the world, needs of New Evangelization, the Holy See, the different dicasteries of the Roman Curia; relations with local churches and bishops, what’s beginning to emerge, the Vatican spokesman noted "is the profile for the future Pope".

Fr. Lombardi noted the variety of the interventions, from organizational questions pertaining to the Holy See to local issues of pastoral action. He also added that the cardinals have decided to meet both morning and afternoon, holding two congregation sessions and with a smile, he reiterated that no date has yet been set for Conclave.

Journalists were also shown a screening of the area of the Apostolic Palace where Conclave takes place. Images where projected from the Pauline Chapel where the procession of cardinals into Conclave begins from through the ‘Sala Reggia’, which is crossed by the processing cardinals and then of the Sistine Chapel which is undergoing a radical overhaul in preparation for the voting. This includes the building of an artificial platform over the ancient pavement to protect the antique marble and mosaic.
 ::snipping2::
In conclusion, responding to a question regarding the cancellation of a daily press briefing by US cardinals, Fr. Lombardi stated: “The cardinals journey toward conclave is not a convention or synod. It is a journey, that is above all a time of reflection for the College of Cardinals. The College has decided to maintain reserve over proceedings. But we are try to give as much information as possible”.


Title: Re: Pope Benedict RESIGNING
Post by: grace-land on March 07, 2013, 02:30:39 AM
http://ncronline.org/blogs/ncr-today/comic-sans-brings-attention-pope-e-book

Comic Sans brings attention to pope e-book
Mar. 6, 2013

The Vatican released a 62-page e-book in honor of Pope Benedict XVI. Each page contains a photo of the pope emeritus -- mainly at various points in his papacy -- as well as reflective and insightful words from his past messages. For example: "The Gospel is not an exclusive possession of whoever has received it but a gift to share, good news to communicate."
 
You can find it here.
 
(No word yet on why Comic Sans was chosen as the font. Although reviled by designers for its light-hearted appearance and purpose, some say Comic Sans has an approachable tone and is an easy font for some to read. In any case, by using the font, the book perhaps is getting more attention than it would had it been written in, say, Times New Roman.  ::snipping2::
--------------------
Link to e-book:  http://www.vatican.va/bxvi/omaggio/index_en.html




Title: Re: Pope Benedict RESIGNING
Post by: grace-land on March 07, 2013, 04:44:20 PM
http://www.catholicregister.org/news/international/item/15951-ring-of-retired-pope-benedict-no-longer-can-be-used-as-seal

Ring of retired Pope Benedict no longer can be used as seal
Thursday, 07 March 2013 12:27

 ::snipping2::
According to the rules governing the interregnum and election of a pope, the College of Cardinals must "arrange for the destruction of the fisherman's ring and of the lead seal with which apostolic letters are dispatched."
 
On March 6, Jesuit Father Federico Lombardi, Vatican spokesman, told reporters that this "destruction" had been completed, although he explained that the ring is not smashed or destroyed completely; rather, two deep cuts are made in its face so that it can no longer be used as a seal.
 
Retired Pope Benedict received the ring at his inauguration Mass along with his pallium, the woolen stole symbolizing a bishop's authority. Both were based on ancient designs.
 
The gold ring, similar to the old rings that popes used also as seals, was designed by the Rome Association of Goldsmiths. It had Pope Benedict's name etched on it and a scene of St. Peter casting out his net, symbolizing how popes are successors of the apostle Peter.
 ::snipping2::



Title: Re: Pope Benedict RESIGNING
Post by: grace-land on March 07, 2013, 04:54:42 PM
Daily press briefing by Fr. Federico Lombardi, Thursday, March 7, 2013

http://en.radiovaticana.va/news/2013/03/07/general_congregations:_with_all_electors_present_still_no_date_fo/en1-671221

2013-03-07 15:49:08
General congregations: With all electors present still no date for Conclave

(Vatican Radio) The very first issue on Fr. Federico Lombardi's agenda Thursday during his daily briefing with international press was to reiterate once again that no date has yet been set for Conclave. He noted that news reports of St Peter's Basilica having been booked Monday afternoon next at 5pm, for a Mass for the election of the Roman Pontiff are unfounded. Fr. Lomabrdi pointed out to press that the Missa pro eligendo pontifice can be celebrated by any priest during the interregnum, or Vacant See, as part of the Universal Church's call to prayer during this period.Emer McCarthy reports Listen: 

152 Cardinals were present for the 5th general congregation that began at 9:30 with prayer. There were two new arrivals overnight: Cardinal Nycz from Warsaw, Poland, who is an elector; and Italian Cardinal Coppa, who is not. The Vietnamese Cardinal Pham of Hồ Chí Minh City is due to arrive in time for Thursday afternoon’s session. His arrival will bring the number of Cardinal Electors present in Rome to the total 115 men who can vote in Conclave for the Pope.

On Thursday morning, the particular congregation, or executive that aids the camerlegno, Cardinal Bertone, and is chosen by lot every three days, was renewed: The names extracted were Cardinal Rai for the order of bishops, Cardinal Monsengwo for the order of priests and Cardinal De Paolis for the order of deacons.

Also Thursday morning the Cardinal-Dean, Angelo Sodano, read the text of a telegram that the College of Cardinals will send to Venezuela marking death of President Chavez.

There were 16 interventions, the first three by Cardinals in charge of the economic affairs of the Holy See; Cardinal Versaldi who is in charge of economic affairs, Cardinal Calcagno in charge of APSA (administration of the Holy See’s patrimony) and Cardinal Bertello from the Governatorate of Vatican City State. Paragraph 171 of the Apostolic Constitution on the Roman Curia Pastor Bonus demands the College of Cardinals receive a report on the patrimonial and economic status of the Holy See during the Vacant See.

The remaining 13 interventions were wide ranging: touching on topics from the Church’s commitment to evangelization, relations with local bishops, ecumenical dialogue and the Church’s charitable commitment to the poor. Further discussion concerned the talents, qualities and characteristics required of the next Pope.
 ::snipping2::
The sixth general congregation will continue Thursday evening from 5 to 7 pm.


Title: Re: Pope Benedict RESIGNING
Post by: grace-land on March 08, 2013, 11:08:11 AM
http://www.cnn.com/2013/03/08/world/europe/vatican-pope-selection/?hpt=hp_t3

Cardinals to vote on date for election of new pope
updated 9:39 AM EST, Fri March 8, 2013

Rome (CNN) -- The Catholic cardinals gathered in Rome will vote later Friday on the date for the secret election, or conclave, to elect a new pope, a Vatican spokesman said.
 
The conclave is not expected to begin before Monday but could start some time next week, said the Rev. Federico Lombardi.
 
There will be 115 cardinal-electors taking part in the conclave, the Vatican confirmed. Only those younger than 80 are eligible to vote.
 ::snipping2::



Title: Re: Pope Benedict RESIGNING
Post by: grace-land on March 08, 2013, 11:22:27 AM
Daily press briefing by Fr. Federico Lombardi, Friday, March 8, 2013

http://en.radiovaticana.va/news/2013/03/08/general_congregations:_cardinals_to_vote_on_conclave_friday_pm/en1-671477

2013-03-08 15:06:34     
General congregations: Cardinals to vote on Conclave Friday PM

Vatican Radio) The College of Cardinals could vote this evening to establish a date for the beginning of the Conclave. That was the news from Vatican Press Office Director, Fr. Federico Lombardi, SJ, on Friday as he briefed journalists on the proceedings of the VIII General Congregation of the College this morning. He also explained that the earliest the Conclave could reasonably be expected to begin would be the start of the coming work week. One hundred fifty-three Cardinals were present for the Friday morning session, including all one hundred fifteen Cardinal Electors who will be participating in the Conclave. Listen to our report: 

The first order of business in the Friday morning session was to give official acceptance to the reasons offered by the two Cardinals with a right to participate in the Conclave, who have declined to present themselves. They are: Archbishop emeritus of Jakarta, Indonesia, Card. Julius Riyadi Darmaatmadja, SJ, who is too ill to attend; Card. Keith O’Brien, emeritus of St. Andrew’s and Edinburgh, who cited well-known personal reasons for his decision. Eighteen were the official interventions of the participants, on a broad range of topics: Fr. Lombardi, SJ’s English-language consultant, Fr. Thomas Rosica, CSB, elaborated. “Among the themes that were addressed [Friday] morning – and this by no means is breaking the secret of what takes place, but is to help [illustrate] the scope of the discussions - [were]: inter-religious dialogue, bioethics, justice in the world, a positive proclamation of love and mercy, especially remembering [Bl. John Paul II] in his teaching on mercy, and collegiality,” he explained.

Fr. Lombardi also had a special greeting for the women journalists participating in the briefing, on occasion of International Women’s Day, celebrated in many countries around the world on March 8th.   ::snipping2::


Title: Re: Pope Benedict RESIGNING
Post by: grace-land on March 08, 2013, 12:00:17 PM
http://www.huffingtonpost.com/2013/03/08/papal-conclave-new-pope-vatican_n_2806379.html

Papal Conclave Date To Elect New Pope Will Be Tuesday, March 12 Says Vatican
Posted: 03/08/2013 11:41 am EST

The Vatican announced Friday that the Catholic church's College of Cardinals will begin the start closed-door papal conclave meetings to elect the new pope on Tuesday, March 12.

All cardinals under 80 years old are eligible to vote for the successor to Pope Emeritus Benedict XVI, who retired on February 28. That leaves 115 cardinals who will vote at the Sistine Chapel up to four times a day until a supermajority (two-thirds plus one additional vote) agree on who the new leader of the Roman Catholic Church should be.
 ::snipping2::



Title: Re: Pope Benedict RESIGNING
Post by: grace-land on March 08, 2013, 12:06:21 PM
http://en.radiovaticana.va/news/2013/03/08/conclave_to_begin_tuesday_march_12th_/en1-671593

2013-03-08 17:39:59     
Conclave to begin Tuesday March 12th

(Vatican Radio) The eighth General Congregation of the College of Cardinals has decided that the Conclave will begin on Tuesday, 12 March 2013

A “pro eligendo Romano Pontifice” Mass will be celebrated in St. Peter’s Basilica in the morning. In the afternoon the cardinals will enter into the Conclave.

More to follow...


Title: Re: Pope Benedict RESIGNING
Post by: grace-land on March 08, 2013, 12:56:31 PM
http://en.radiovaticana.va/news/2013/03/08/conclave_to_begin_tuesday_march_12th_/en1-671593

2013-03-08 17:39:59     
Conclave to begin Tuesday March 12th

 ::snipping2::
Tuesday afternoon the 115 Cardinal Electors will gather in the Pauline Chapel for a moment of collection and prayer and from there they will process in order of precedence through the Sala Regia to the Sistine Chapel invoking the Holy Spirit.

There they will take their seats, again observing the order of precedence, to elect the 265th Successor to St Peter. Once they have taken their seats they will hear the second meditation established by the Apostolic Constitution governing the papal transitions. It will be given by the Maltese Augustinian, Cardinal Prospero Grech.

Following the mediation, the 115 cardinals will swear an oath to observe the rules of Conclave which include to maintain fidelity to the election of the Pope, to maintain secrecy, never to support or favor interference. The Cardinal Dean Angelo Sodano, reads aloud the formula of the oath, the Cardinal electors respond: I do so promise, pledge and swear.

After all the Cardinals have taken the oath, the Master of the Papal Ceremonies, Msgr. Guido Marini orders all individuals other than the Cardinal Electors and conclave participants to leave the Sistine Chapel. He stands at the great wooden doors and pronounces the phrase: "Extra omnes!" He then closes the door.

According to the Apostolic Constitution, on the afternoon of the first day, one ballot may be held. If a ballot takes place on the afternoon of the first day and no-one is elected, four ballots are held on each successive day, two in the morning and two in the afternoon. If no result is obtained after three vote days of balloting, the process is suspended for a maximum of one day for prayer, meditation and reflection. A two thirds majority is required for the election of a Pope.

Of the 115 Cardinal Electors, more than half are European with the largest single nationality represented by the 28 Italian Cardinal Electors. In a geographical breakdown: 60 come from Europe, 19 from Latin America, 14 from North America, 11 from Africa, 10 from Asia and 1 from Oceania.

The average age of the Cardinal Electors is 71 while 67 of the Cardinals who will enter in the Conclave Tuesday were appointed by Pope emeritus, Benedict XVI.

There were eight Conclaves in the 20th century, only three of which lasted longer than three days. The longest Conclave in the last two hundred years was 1830-1831. It lasted 50 days for a total of 83 ballots resulting in the election of Gregory XVI, the last religious elected to the papacy. The shortest Conclave in the 20th century took place in 1939. Eugenio Pacelli was elected Pius XII after just three ballots.


Title: Re: Pope Benedict RESIGNING
Post by: grace-land on March 08, 2013, 03:29:37 PM
Two-page article
From page 2...

http://www.deseretnews.com/article/865575220/Electing-a-new-pope-Catholic-heirarchy-follows-proceess-rituals-developed-over-centuries.html?pg=1

Electing a new pope: Catholic heirarchy follows process, rituals developed over centuries
Published: Friday, March 8 2013 9:50 a.m. MST

 ::snipping2::
Wister said the word "conclave" is Latin for "locked up in a room," and its Catholic origins are in the papal elections of the 13th century, when one election dragged on for two years. The townspeople of Viterbo, a village outside of Rome, got tired of feeding and housing the churchmen, so they locked the cardinals in the episcopal palace, feeding them just bread and water, and a decision was made promptly.

The tradition of locking up the cardinals has continued, although the motive has changed. Conclaves now usually last a day or two, during which a strict voting ritual is observed.

The voting process

Following a special mass calling on the Holy Spirit to guide the decision, the cardinal electors, who must be younger than 80 years of age, file into the Sistine Chapel, where a sophisticated anti-bugging system is installed under an elevated floor to block communication from inside and outside the chapel, Wister said.

Each cardinal is given a pre-printed ballot on which he writes the name of his preference for pope. "And one by one they walk up and take an oath that they are voting for the man they consider the most suitable candidate without pressure, then the ballot is placed in (an) urn," Wister said.

After all the ballots have been cast, two cardinals who have been appointed as "scrutineers" over the election read each ballot aloud, while the electors keep their own personal scorecards.

If no one receives at least two-thirds of the vote, then another round of balloting takes place. Wister said as many as four rounds of voting can take place in one day.

After each round, the ballots are burned in a stove, which is stocked with pellets to assure the smoke snaking out of the chapel's chimney is either black (meaning no decision) or white (a pope has been elected).

"Given these cardinals are not very good at domestic chores, they have had problems with the stove. In the last conclave the damper didn't work and smoke filled the chapel," Wister said. "As solemn and important as (the conclave) is, it has its funny sides, too."

'A great joy'

Technically, any male in good standing can be elected to the position of pope — the official Bishop of Rome and successor of the ancient apostle Peter, the head of the church. But, Wister said, the last time a noncardinal was elected was in 1378 with the controversial Urban VI, whose papacy led to a schism in the church.

When a cardinal receives two-thirds of the vote, he is formally asked to accept and to declare what name he will be known by. The results are then notarized and sealed. The new pope is vested with a white cassock and red cape, and each cardinal individually promises obedience. The ballots are burned with pellets producing white smoke and the bell of St. Peter's rings.

The final event of the papal election occurs when the senior cardinal deacon declares in Latin, “I announce to you a great joy: We have a pope!” and the pope appears on the balcony overlooking St. Peter's square.
 ::snipping2::


Title: Re: Pope Benedict RESIGNING
Post by: grace-land on March 08, 2013, 03:38:36 PM
http://en.radiovaticana.va/news/2013/03/08/conclave:_a_few_dates_with_history/en1-671628

2013-03-08 18:57:01     
Conclave: A few dates with history

Vatican Radio) Below we publish a few fun facts about Conclaves in modern history provided for us by Dr. Donald Prudlo, Associate Professor of History at Jacksonville State University, Alabama:

1740 election of Benedict XIV (d. 1758).
51 electors, 4 died during conclave
18 Feb - 17 August (181 days) (LONGEST IN MODERN HISTORY)

1758 election of Clement XIII (d. 1769)
45 electors, 44 at final ballot.
15 May - 6 July (53 days)

1769 election of Clement XIV (d. 1774) (Clement was O.F.M. Conv.)
46 electors
15 Feb - 19 May (94 days)

1774-1775 election of Pius VI (d. 1799)
44 electors, 2 died
5 Oct 1774 - 15 Feb 1775 (133 days)
 ::snipping2::
1846 Bl. Pius IX (d. 1878) (beginning of the short conclaves)
50 electors
14-16 June (3 days)

1878 Leo XII (d. 1903) (First non European Cardinal arrives too late, John McCloskey of NYC)
61 electors
18-20 Feb (3 days)

1903 St. Pius X (d. 1914) (First non-European elector, Gibbons, Baltimore; last ius exclusivae -- the so-called 'veto' which was formally abolished by Pius X)
64 electors
7 Ballots
31 Jul - 4 Aug (4 days)

1914 Benedict XV (d. 1922) (2 Americans and 1 Quebecer locked out of Conclave having arrived late; 1st Latin American Cardinal)
57 electors
10 ballots
(31 Aug - 3 Sep)

1922 Pius XI (d. 1939) (2 Americans and 1 Quebecer locked out of Conclave AGAIN -- after this Conclave, a 15 day rule was intituted to allow all Cardinal electors time to arrive)
53 electors
14 ballots
2-6 Feb (5 days)

1939 Piux XII (d. 1958) (1st Eastern Rite Patriarch participates)
62 electors (all living cardinals)
3 ballots (FEWEST BALLOTS and SHORTEST CONCLAVE
1-2 March (2 days)

1958 Bl. John XXIII (d. 1963) (First Chinese, Indian, and African Cardinals)
51 electors
11 ballots
25-28 Oct (4 days)

1963 Paul VI (d. 1978)
80 electors
6 ballots
19-21 June (3 days)

1978(1) John Paul I (d. 1978) (First conclave where over -80s didn’t participate)
111 electors
4 ballots
25-26 Aug (2 days)

1978(2) Bl. John Paul II (d. 2005)
111 electors
8 ballots
14-16 Oct (3 days)

2005 Benedict XVI
115 electors (EQUALS LARGEST NUMBER, 115 this time)
4 ballots
18-19 April (2 days)

2013 First conclave in Lent since 1829


Title: Re: Pope Benedict RESIGNING
Post by: grace-land on March 08, 2013, 05:54:53 PM
An article from February 11--

http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/world-europe-11141340

11 February 2013 Last updated at 07:24 ET
Profile: Pope Benedict XVI

In a shock announcement on Monday the Vatican said Pope Benedict XVI would resign as head of the Catholic Church on 28 February.

Speaking in Latin the Pope, aged 85, told cardinals in Rome that his "strengths due to an advanced age are no longer suited" to the role.

It is extremely rare for a Pope to resign. In the Middle Ages, Pope Celestine V resigned in 1294, after only five months as pontiff. He died nearly two years later as a hermit. The last pope to resign was Pope Gregory XII in 1415.

There is a clause in Church Canon Law saying that a papal resignation is valid if the decision is made freely and manifested properly.

At 78, Benedict XVI was one of the oldest new popes in history when he was elected in 2005.

A piano-playing professor, Cardinal Joseph Ratzinger was looking forward to retirement when Pope John Paul II died in 2005. He has said he never wanted to be Pope.

If he or any of the cardinals who elected him imagined a brief, uneventful reign, paving a transition to a new era, they were to be disappointed.

Benedict took the helm as one of the fiercest storms the Catholic Church has faced in decades - the scandal of child sex abuse by priests - was breaking.
 ::snipping2::


Title: Re: Pope Benedict RESIGNING
Post by: grace-land on March 08, 2013, 05:58:43 PM
http://www.northjersey.com/news/international/196485831_Vatican_goes_high-tech_to_ensure_conclave_secrecy.html

Vatican goes high-tech to ensure conclave secrecy
Friday March 8, 2013, 4:08 PM

VATICAN CITY (RNS) The secrecy and security measures that surround a papal election are designed to "make the conclave safe for the Holy Spirit," as the saying goes.

But the high-tech defenses the Vatican is deploying for next week's conclave are so impressive that it will be a miracle if even the Holy Spirit can slip in to the Sistine Chapel.

On Friday (March 8 ), the Vatican's chief spokesman, the Rev. Federico Lombardi, confirmed that special jamming devices will be surround the Sistine Chapel and the Santa Marta guest residence where cardinals will be sequestered during the conclave.

This will not only prevent electronic eavesdropping on the secret proceedings, but will also stop cardinals from communicating via telephones or computers with the outside world.

Church law regulating the conclave forbids cardinals from communicating, "whether by writing, by telephone or by any other means" during a papal election. The conclave is scheduled to open on Tuesday, and is expected to last for several days.

During the 2005 Conclave, a German cardinal informed a German television channel of the election of Joseph Ratzinger as Pope Benedict XVI well ahead of the official announcement from the balcony of St. Peter's Basilica, according to the Italian daily La Repubblica.

All of the staff that will assist the cardinals during the conclave — from priests standing by ready to hear confessions to the sisters serving meals in the Santa Marta — will take an oath of secrecy, Lombardi said.

Should they breach it, they will incur automatic excommunication, the harshest penalty for Catholics.
 ::snipping2::
 


Title: Re: Pope Benedict RESIGNING
Post by: grace-land on March 08, 2013, 09:35:12 PM
http://worldnews.nbcnews.com/_news/2013/03/08/17226115-it-takes-as-long-as-it-takes-how-the-next-pope-will-be-chosen-step-by-secret-step?lite

3 hours ago
'It takes as long as it takes': How the next pope will be chosen, step by secret step

 ::snipping2::
A (relatively) new way of doing things

Benedict's election was unusually quick, coming after only four ballots. More commonly, the balloting takes a few days, and because of a change Benedict instituted in 2007, there's the potential for a long conclave this time.

Benedict was elected under rules stipulating that after about 30 ballots, depending on how many votes are taken on the first day, the cardinals could choose to drop the threshold for election to a simple majority.

Benedict threw out that stipulation, meaning a two-thirds vote will be needed for all of the ballots. After 33 or 34 ballots, and occasional one-day breaks for prayer and reflection, the election is narrowed to the two leading vote-getters — but even then, Benedict ordered, the winner has to get two-thirds.

Many "Vaticanisti" — the pundits and journalists who obsessively follow the political goings-on of the church — predict that this change will result in a compromise pope, with the leader in early balloting ultimately fading.

Eventually, someone will be chosen, at which point the senior cardinal will ask the winner, "Do you accept your canonical election as Supreme Pontiff?" If he says yes (accepto), he is the pope, just like that. The new pope will then declare his papal name.

"Then he goes out," Murphy-O'Connor said. "There's a papal tailor outside with three cassocks, white cassocks — large, medium and small — and then after 10 minutes or so he comes back and he's put in the middle and we all go up and kiss his ring.
 
"It doesn't matter how you voted, whatever. He's the pope now," Murphy-O'Connor added. "It's very dramatic, it's very moving, and it's very faithful."

After the white smoke appears — historically triggering extended cheers from the thousands gathered outside — a senior cardinal will step onto the balcony of St. Peter's Basilica and declare: Annuntio vobis gaudium magnum. Habemus papam. ("I announce to you news of great joy. We have a pope.")

The new pope, whoever he is, then appears before the throng and performs his first official public act. It is a simple apostolic blessing called Urbi et orbi ("to the city and the world"):
 
May the Holy Apostles Peter and Paul, in whose power and authority we have confidence, intercede on our behalf to the Lord.
 
Through the prayers and merits of the Blessed Mary ever-virgin, of Blessed Michael the Archangel, of Blessed John the Baptist and of the Holy Apostles Peter and Paul and of all the saints, may Almighty God have mercy on you, and with your sins forgiven, may Jesus Christ lead you into everlasting life.
 
May the Almighty and merciful Lord grant you indulgence, absolution and remission of all your sins, time for a true and fruitful penance, an always repentant heart and amendment of life, the grace and consolation of the Holy Spirit and final perseverance in good works.
 
And may the blessing of Almighty God, and the Father and the Son and the Holy Spirit descend on you and remain with you always.


Title: Re: Pope Benedict RESIGNING
Post by: grace-land on March 09, 2013, 11:36:16 AM
http://en.radiovaticana.va/news/2013/03/08/conclave:_expectations_in_light_of_recent_history/en1-671573

2013-03-09 08:59:40     
Conclave: expectations in light of recent history

(Vatican Radio) Senior Fellow at Georgetown University’s Woodstock Theological Center, Fr. Thomas Reese says he believes the conclave will be a short one because the Cardinals have had one month to get to know each other and sound out their colleagues on the issues of concern to the Church. He told Vatican Radio's Tracey McClure that the lengthy interval between the announcement of Benedict XVI's resignation and the start of the Conclave will have provided ample opportunity for different kinds of discussion among the Cardinals. Listen: 

"Theoretically," said Fr. Reese, "the longer they have to talk to one another, especially informally…that’s where the really important thing happens. Where the Cardinals meet over dinner, over coffee, just you know, visiting each other. (It’s) an opportunity to get to know each other, to ask questions: ‘what do you think are the issues facing the Church, what do you think the qualities we should have in a new pope?’ And what do you think of this man or that man - this kind of informal discussion. Typically, after a while, two or three names start to surface. The Cardinals all hear form each other and so these become kind of the leading candidates. Now, the longer they have to do that, you figure the better they know each other so once they get into the conclave, it’s gonna be quick. Unless – unless: let’s say the top two candidates block each other…you’ve got to have that two-thirds majority. And if the top candidates cannot get a two-thirds majority, if one third plus one of the Cardinals don’t like him, that’s it… so they’re going to be watching the votes. The more people move up, if they have momentum, then that’s a good sign. But if they suddenly don’t get anymore votes and then they start to decline, well that’s the end of that candidacy.”

Q. So is there a cut-off point for a conclave- a maximum time period?
 ::snipping2::


Title: Re: Pope Benedict RESIGNING
Post by: grace-land on March 09, 2013, 11:41:23 AM
http://en.radiovaticana.va/news/2013/03/09/conclave:_timetable_for_first_days/en1-671748

2013-03-09 14:09:13     
Conclave: timetable for first days

(Vatican Radio) During the course of the briefing for journalists on Saturday in the Press Office of the Holy See, Fr. Federico Lombardi, SJ, outlined a timetable for the ceremonies and proceedings on the first days of the upcoming Conclave. The times given below are tentative and approximate.

Tuesday, March 12th, 2013 (all times Rome local: GMT + 1)

15:45 – Transfer from Domus Sanctae Marthae to Pauline Chapel
16:30 – Procession from Pauline Chapel to Sistine Chapel
16:45 – Oath administered and Extra omnes! Proclaimed

Followed by meditation by Card. Prosper Grech, OP
Eventual 1st vote

19:15 – Vespers
19:30 – Cardinals return to Domus Sanctae Marthae

Wednesday, March 13th, 2013 (all times Rome local: GMT + 1)

06:30 – Breakfast served in Domus S. Marthae (until 7:30)
07:45 – Transfer from Domus S. Marthae to Sistine Chapel
08:15 – Mass
09:30 – Hora Media in Sistine Chapel

Morning vote(s) (scrutiny(ies) taken

12:30 – Cardinals return to Domus Sanctae Marthae
13:00 – Lunch
16:00 – Cardinals return to Sistine Chapel
16:50 – Scrutinies taken
19:15 – Vespers
 ::snipping2::


Title: Re: Pope Benedict RESIGNING
Post by: grace-land on March 09, 2013, 11:46:34 AM
Daily press briefing by Fr. Federico Lombardi, Saturday, March 9, 2013

http://en.radiovaticana.va/news/2013/03/09/fr_lombardi,_sj:_briefing_to_journalists_on_ix_general_congregation/en1-671773

2013-03-09 15:14:53     
Fr Lombardi, SJ: briefing to journalists on IX General Congregation

Vatican Radio) The Director of the Press Office of the Holy See, Fr. Federico Lombardi, SJ, briefed journalists on Saturday, after the morning session of the IX General Congregation. During the course of the question and answer session, one journalist asked whether there is a projected duration of the Conclave. Fr. Lombardi explained that the general spirit among the participants in the General Congregations, and their readiness to enter into Conclave, tend to suggest that the Conclave itself will not last more than a few days, at most. “It is not my place to tell the Cardinals what to do,” he said, adding, “a lengthy duration of the Conclave would evidently be a sign of an impasse," i.e. that consensus had not been reached. “It is not up to me,” repeated Fr. Lombardi, SJ, “but I have no reason [to foresee such a situation].” Listen to our report: 

Among the details that emerged, there was confirmation of the dissolution – the rendering useless – of the Fisherman’s Ring and other official seals of Benedict XVI’s pontificate. Fr. Lombardi, SJ’s English-language consultant, Fr. Thomas Rosica, CSB, elaborated. “Fr. [Lombardi, SJ] saw with his very own eyes this (Saturday) morning, five objects that were ruined – scratched [and] rendered useless, because the image was destroyed,” he said. Fr. Rosica went on to say, “First of all, there’s the ring – the Fisherman’s Ring that was destroyed – the image was scratched – secondly, there was [also destroyed] a stamp of the Fisherman’s Ring, a seal, which was used to seal official documents.” There were, in addition,  ::snipping2::


Title: Re: Pope Benedict RESIGNING
Post by: grace-land on March 11, 2013, 12:48:36 AM
http://bostonglobe.com/news/world/2013/03/09/sistine-chapel-prepared-for-conclave-select-successor-pope-benedict-xvi/7sTy8vymAh4hCi4tMV7eOP/story.html

Vatican gives inside look at conclave preparations
March 09, 2013
 
 ::snipping2::
The Vatican just released a conclave schedule for the English-speaking press. The action will begin at 4:30 p.m. local time (11:30 a.m. Boston time) on Tuesday, when the cardinals process from the Pauline Chapel to the Sistine Chapel. At 4:45 p.m., each cardinal will swear an oath of secrecy, and the voting may begin.

Assuming no pope is elected on the first ballot, the cardinals will hold a 15-minute vespers service in the chapel at 7:15 p.m. and then return to the Vatican hotel where they are staying during the conclave, Sanctae Marthae, to eat dinner and sleep. They are not allowed access to the outside world during the conclave, which is meant to ensure the integrity and independence of the vote.
 
In the days following, the cardinals will have breakfast between 6:30 and 7:30 a.m., celebrate Mass in the Pauline Chapel, and then at 9:30 a.m. return to the Sistine Chapel to pray and vote. They take a lengthy lunch break from 12:30 to 4:30 p.m., then begin a second round of voting before breaking for the night at 7:30 p.m.


Title: Re: Pope Benedict RESIGNING
Post by: grace-land on March 11, 2013, 04:28:58 PM
The daily press briefing by Fr. Federico Lombardi, Monday, March 11, 2013

http://en.radiovaticana.va/news/2013/03/11/final_press_briefing:_cardinals_hold_last_general_congregation/en1-672308

2013-03-11 16:01:40     
Final Press Briefing: Cardinals hold last General Congregation

The Holy See Press Office on Monday held its last briefing before the Conclave. The briefing happened after the 10th and final General Congregation of the Cardinals, in which 152 Cardinals participated. The head of the Holy See Press Office Father Federico Lombardi, SJ, confirmed the Cardinals heard a report on the Institute for the Works of Religion (IOR), more commonly known as the Vatican Bank. The Cardinals also spoke about their expectations and hopes for the new Pope.

They also chose the three assistants, from each class of Cardinals, who will help during the first days of the Conclave: Cardinal Antonios Naguib for the Cardinal-Bishops, Cardinal Marc Ouellet for the Cardinal-Priests, and Cardinal Francesco Monterisi for the Cardinal-Deacons.
The press officer said, judging by previous conclaves, if a ballot is held on Tuesday, the first smoke would probably not be seen until around 8pm.

Reporters were also reminded of a small change after a Pope is elected: Before appearing on the Central Loggia, he will pray, by himself, in the Pauline Chapel.

It was confirmed that Archbishop Georg Gänswein, the personal secretary of Pope-emeritus Benedict XVI, will proceed with the Cardinals before the Conclave, in his role as Prefect of the Pontifical Household.

It was also clarified that the Mass of the Inauguration of the Pope does not have to take place on a Sunday, but will take place at least a few days after the election, so everything can be organized.
 ::snipping2::
There will be no press briefing on Tuesday.


Title: Re: Pope Benedict RESIGNING
Post by: grace-land on March 11, 2013, 11:57:03 PM
http://www.herald-dispatch.com/opinions/x2070320787/JP-Grace-Heres-the-process-for-selecting-a-pope

JP Grace: Here's the process for selecting a pope
March 11, 2013 @ 09:55 PM

In this period of "sede vacante" (vacant chair) at the Vatican after the resignation of Pope Benedict XVI, perhaps a quick question-and-answer look at the process would be helpful.

Q: Why does the Catholic church call its main leader a "pope?" What's the meaning of that word?

A: "Pope" comes from the Latin "papa," which, just as in English, means "father." That is why the pope is referred to as "the Holy Father." A pope then is the "papa" of the church's human family.

Q: If the Catholic church is Christian, as it says it is, wouldn't Christ himself be "the head of the church?"

A: Catholic doctrine agrees with that position. And thus the pope is also referred to as "the vicar of Christ," his emissary in the world. His role is to listen prayerfully to God and be obedient to the graces He receives to govern the church.

Q: If the church considers that St. Peter was the first pope, how many popes have there been in the 20-plus centuries since Jesus' time?

A: Though some periods of papal history can be a bit fuzzy -- for instance, in the 13th century there was a time when three different men claimed to be pope -- the most frequently cited number given is 265.
 ::snipping2::



Title: Re: Pope Benedict RESIGNING
Post by: grace-land on March 12, 2013, 02:08:45 AM
http://www.delawareonline.com/article/20130312/NEWS/303120024/Conclave-likely-won-t-make-pick-today

Conclave likely won't make pick today
Just one voting session scheduled at Vatican
Mar 12, 2013

ROME — Although the conclave to select the next pope begins today, no one is expecting drama on the first day.

For starters, there’s only one voting session, set for around noon (5 p.m. local time). That’s compared to four ballots per day come Wednesday.

“You can expect black smoke,” said Vatican spokesman Federico Lombardi, drawing his confidence from a long history of day-one duds. “The first conclave vote rarely has a positive result.”

But what to the outside world may look like a wasted day is actually to the 115 voting cardinals a critical steppingstone toward selecting a leader for the world’s 1.2 billion Catholics.

“This first day is important because it establishes the spiritual aspects of the conclave,” says Matthew Bunson, a religious scholar and author of “We Have a Pope! Benedict XVI.” “That happens through the procession into the Sistine Chapel and the constant prayers asking for the guidance of the Holy Spirit.”

But perhaps more significantly, it clues cardinals in to who’s trending.

“They learn from that first vote who the leading contenders are and what level of backing they have,” says Bunson, noting that Cardinal Joseph Ratzinger’s strong support at the outset of 2005’s conclave led to him becoming Pope Benedict in just four ballots.
 ::snipping2::


Title: Re: Pope Benedict RESIGNING
Post by: grace-land on March 12, 2013, 01:01:37 PM
http://www.google.com/hostednews/afp/article/ALeqM5iQfjjH5-AZPNaHz0bV5JjlQiSZ0Q?docId=CNG.eab94a2c1e3cc3026f70142302647ef7.681

Live Report: Papal conclave begins
(AFP) – 9 minutes ago 

1636 GMT: As rain pours down, the eyes of spectators turn to the chimney, where a smoke signal will emerge after each of the four votes that will take place every day.

Now, two masters of ceremonies will be distributing voting papers to the cardinal electors, each inscribed at the top with the words "Eligo in Summum Pontificem" ("I elect as supreme pontiff") with a blank space underneath.

Lots will be drawn to select nine cardinals as "scrutineers" who count the votes, "infirmarii" who collect votes from any cardinals who fall ill, and "revisers" who check the vote counts.

1634 GMT: THE SISTINE CHAPEL'S DOORS SWING SHUT: CONCLAVE OFFICIALLY BEGINS

1633 GMT: The ceremony of oaths concludes, with the famous shout of "Extra omnes": "Everyone out".

Only the 115 cardinal electors remain inside the Sistine Chapel.
 ::snipping2::


Title: Re: Pope Benedict RESIGNING
Post by: grace-land on March 12, 2013, 02:55:38 PM
Black smoke from chimney from Vatican--No pope, yet!




Title: Re: Pope Benedict RESIGNING
Post by: grace-land on March 12, 2013, 02:58:06 PM
http://www.google.com/hostednews/afp/article/ALeqM5iQfjjH5-AZPNaHz0bV5JjlQiSZ0Q?docId=CNG.eab94a2c1e3cc3026f70142302647ef7.681

Live Report: Papal conclave begins
(AFP) – 4 minutes ago 

1842 GMT: BLACK SMOKE FROM SISTINE CHAPEL -- NO POPE CHOSEN


Title: Re: Pope Benedict RESIGNING
Post by: grace-land on March 12, 2013, 03:14:11 PM
http://www.huffingtonpost.com/2013/03/12/black-smoke-appeared-at-sistine-chapel-chimney-live-stream_n_2861974.html

Black Smoke Appeared At Sistine Chapel Chimney (LIVE STREAM)
Posted: 03/12/2013 2:47 pm EDT  |  Updated: 03/12/2013 2:53 pm EDT

With a puff of black smoke from the Sistine Chapel chimney on Tuesday afternoon, the Roman Catholic Church's College of Cardinals signaled that that's they haven't decided on the new pope.

The smoke appeared at 2:42 p.m. U.S. Eastern time.

The church's 115 cardinals will meet again Wednesday morning to vote again on the new pope. A cardinal needs at least 77 votes to become pope.

Aside from the voting Tuesday, there will be up to four votes per day until a pope is elected. On Wednesday and following days, the cardinals will have up to two votes before prayer and lunch at 12:30 p.m., and up to two votes at 4 p.m. before prayer at 7:15 p.m.

Depending on when the winning vote is taken, white smoke will arise from the Sistine Chapel at 10:30 a.m., noon, 5:30 p.m. or 7 p.m. If no pope was elected, black smoke will arise from the chapel's chimney at noon and 7 p.m. (U.S. Eastern times). The new pope has to accept the position before white smoke is released, and if smoke is released at night, the Sistine Chapel chimney will be lit up so onlookers can see it.

If there's no election by Friday, cardinals will pause on Saturday for a day of reflection and prayer. The voting would continue in that pattern (three days of voting with a one-day break) until the 34th voting round. Then there would be a runoff between the top two candidates.

When a pope is chosen and white smoke rises from the chapel, the bells of St. Peter's Basilica will ring, as they did in 2005 when Benedict was elected. It took about 40 minutes between the white smoke and official announcement in 2005 when Pope Emeritus Benedict XVI was elected.
 ::snipping2::



Title: Re: Pope Benedict RESIGNING
Post by: Tamikosmom on March 12, 2013, 03:19:10 PM
Eldest son and French Canadian wife meet with an Evangelical congregation in Victoria, BC but DIL's Conservative parents in Quebec are straunch Catholics.  I received an email from them on the weekend.  They are praying that God raises up either Canadian Marc Quellet and American Timothy Dolan as the next Pope.  It is their position that both do not compromise Biblical doctrine.  When all is said and done ... this devote couple will bow to God's Will.





Title: Re: Pope Benedict RESIGNING
Post by: grace-land on March 12, 2013, 03:38:40 PM
Eldest son and French Canadian wife meet with an Evangelical congregation in Victoria, BC but DIL's Conservative parents in Quebec are straunch Catholics.  I received an email from them on the weekend.  They are praying that God raises up either Canadian Marc Quellet and American Timothy Dolan as the next Pope.  It is their position that both do not compromise Biblical doctrine.  When all is said and done ... this devote couple will bow to God's Will.





It's good to hear that they are praying for the next Pope and are devout Catholics, Janet.  It will be interesting, and maybe a surprise, when the new Pope is elected!


Title: Re: Pope Benedict RESIGNING
Post by: grace-land on March 12, 2013, 04:08:47 PM
http://www.foxnews.com/world/2013/03/12/catholic-cardinals-head-to-conclave-to-elect-new-pope/

Black smoke indicates no pope elected on first day of conclave in Rome
Published March 12, 2013

A plume of black smoke billowed from the Vatican on Tuesday, indicating cardinals have not yet chosen a successor for Pope Benedict XVI on the first day of conclave.
 
The cardinals now return to the Vatican's Santa Marta hotel for the night. They return to the Apostolic Palace for Mass Wednesday morning and a new round of voting.
 
Beginning Wednesday, the cardinals will cast four ballots a day – twice in the morning and twice in the afternoon
Read more...


Title: Re: Pope Benedict RESIGNING
Post by: Tamikosmom on March 12, 2013, 09:11:56 PM
Eldest son and French Canadian wife meet with an Evangelical congregation in Victoria, BC but DIL's Conservative parents in Quebec are straunch Catholics.  I received an email from them on the weekend.  They are praying that God raises up either Canadian Marc Quellet or  American Timothy Dolan as the next Pope.  It is their position that both do not compromise Biblical doctrine.  When all is said and done ... this devote couple will bow and accept God's Will.


Cardinal Ouellet's tiny hometown besieged by journalists as conclave begins
March 12, 2013 3:10 PM

http://www.vancouversun.com/news/new-era-for-the-vatican/index.html/Cardinals+gather+begin+secret+voting+successor+Pope/8082264/story.html


Title: Re: Pope Benedict RESIGNING
Post by: Tamikosmom on March 12, 2013, 09:20:44 PM
Eldest son and French Canadian wife meet with an Evangelical congregation in Victoria, BC but DIL's Conservative parents in Quebec are straunch Catholics.  I received an email from them on the weekend.  They are praying that God raises up either Canadian Marc Quellet and American Timothy Dolan as the next Pope.  It is their position that both do not compromise Biblical doctrine.  When all is said and done ... this devote couple will bow to God's Will.



It's good to hear that they are praying for the next Pope and are devout Catholics, Janet.  It will be interesting, and maybe a surprise, when the new Pope is elected!


Grace

My eldest son's inlaws are "presenting their requests" in prayer to God as Scripture commands but they are aware that our Heavenly Father knows what is best for His children and the answer to their pleas may be denied.

Janet

++++++

Philippians 4:6
Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God
.


Title: Re: Pope Benedict RESIGNING
Post by: grace-land on March 12, 2013, 11:22:53 PM
http://www.todayscatholicnews.org/2013/03/in-pre-conclave-sermon-cardinal-sodano-calls-for-unity/

In pre-conclave sermon, Cardinal Sodano calls for unity
By Francis X. Rocca
Posted on March 12, 2013

VATICAN CITY (CNS) — Hours before the start of the conclave that will choose the next pope, the dean of the College of Cardinals celebrated the papacy as a source of unity among Catholics and of evangelization and charitable service to the world.

Christ “has established his apostles and among them Peter, who takes the lead, as the visible foundation of the unity of the church,” Cardinal Angelo Sodano said in his homily at St. Peter’s Basilica March 12. “Each of us is therefore called to cooperate with the successor of Peter, the visible foundation of such an ecclesial unity.”

Cardinal Sodano, 85, concelebrated the Mass “Pro Eligendo Romano Pontifice” (for the election of the Roman pontiff) with some 170 other cardinals, including 115 under 80 who would be entering the conclave in the Sistine Chapel that afternoon.

At the start of the Mass, as a choir and the congregation chanted verses from the psalms, the cardinals processed up the main aisle of the basilica, wearing vestments in the red of Pentecost, signifying their invocation of the Holy Spirit to guide the papal election.

Cardinal Sodano’s homily included words of thanks for the “brilliant pontificate” of Pope Benedict XVI, which prompted more than 30 seconds of applause.
 ::snipping2::


Title: Re: Pope Benedict RESIGNING
Post by: grace-land on March 12, 2013, 11:26:53 PM
http://www.indcatholicnews.com/news.php?viewStory=22129

Text: Cardinal Sodano at Mass before Conclave
Posted: Tuesday, March 12, 2013 10:56 am

Cardinal Angelo Sodano gave the following homily this morning at the Mass for the Election of a Roman Pontiff, concelebrated by the Cardinals before the enter the Conclave today.
 
Below is a translation of the Homily given by Cardinal Angelo Sodono
 
Dear Concelebrants, Distinct Authorities, Brothers and Sisters in Christ,
 
“Forever I will sing the mercies of the Lord” is the hymn that resounds once again near the tomb of the Apostle Peter in this important hour of the history of the Holy Church of Christ. These are the words of Psalm 88 that have flowed from our lips to adore, give thanks and beg the Father who is in heaven.
 
“Misericordias Domini in aeternum cantabo”: is the beautiful Latin text that has introduced us into contemplation of the One who always watches over his Church with love, sustaining her on her journey down through the ages, and giving her life through his Holy Spirit.
 
Such an interior attitude is ours today as we wish to offer ourselves with Christ to the Father who is in heaven, to thank him for the loving assistance that he always reserves for the Holy Church, and in particular for the brilliant Pontificate that he granted to us through the life and work of the 265th Successor of Peter, the beloved and venerable Pontiff Benedict XVI, to whom we renew in this moment all of our gratitude.
 
At the same time today, we implore the Lord, that through the pastoral sollicitude of the Cardinal Fathers, He may soon grant another Good Shepherd to his Holy Church. In this hour, faith in the promise of Christ sustains us in the indefectible character of the church. Indeed Jesus said to Peter: “You are Peter and on this rock I will build my Church, and the gates of hell shall not prevail against her.” (Mt. 16:18).
 
My brothers, the readings of the World of God that we have just heard can help us better understand the mission that Christ has entrusted to Peter and to his successors.
 ::snipping2::




Title: Re: Pope Benedict RESIGNING
Post by: Tamikosmom on March 12, 2013, 11:50:53 PM
Papal conclave: Second day of voting is make-or-break day for cardinals
Published on Tue Mar 12 2013


<snipped>

The first ballot on Tuesday produced the expected black smoke, the signal that none of the candidates had reached the 77 votes needed to win.

Italy’s leading newspapers on Tuesday put Quebec’s Cardinal Marc Ouellet among the top three or four front-runners. He was placed third by La Stampa’s Andrea Tornielli, the respected journalist whose insider knowledge of pre-conclave discussions led the Vatican to clamp down on cardinals talking to the press.

Ahead of Ouellet, if reports are accurate, are Italy’s Angelo Scola, a protégé of the now-retired Benedict’s, and Brazil’s Odilo Scherer, who is backed by top prelates in the Vatican bureaucracy.

Ouellet, 68, is a staunch conservative and another Benedict favourite. His chances seem to depend on cardinals looking for an alternative if Scola or Scherer can’t break clear.

<snipped>

http://www.thestar.com/news/world/pope/2013/03/12/papal_conclave_will_cardinal_marc_ouellet_become_the_next_pope_too_early_to_tell_as_cardinals_begin_long_journey.html


Title: Re: Pope Benedict RESIGNING
Post by: grace-land on March 13, 2013, 10:36:59 AM
http://www.huffingtonpost.com/2013/03/13/black-smoke-at-sistine-chapel-indicates-no-pope_n_2865317.html?utm_hp_ref=religion

Black Smoke At Sistine Chapel: No Pope Elected
Posted: 03/13/2013 6:44 am EDT  |  Updated: 03/13/2013 7:00 am EDT

With a puff of black smoke from the Sistine Chapel chimney on Wednesday morning in Rome, the Catholic Church's College of Cardinals signaled they haven't decided on the new pope after two rounds of voting on Wednesday, the second day of the papal conclave.

The smoke appeared at 6:39 a.m. EDT (11:39 a.m. CET).

The Church's 115 cardinals will meet again Wednesday afternoon to vote on the new pope. A cardinal needs at least 77 votes to become pope. There will be up to four votes per day until a pope is elected.

Depending on when the winning vote is taken, white smoke will arise from the Sistine Chapel at 5:30 a.m. EDT (10:30 a.m. CET), 7 a.m. EDT (12 p.m. CET), 12:30 p.m. EDT (5:30 p.m. CET) or 2 p.m. EDT (7 p.m. CET). If no pope was elected, black smoke will arise from the chapel's chimney at 7 a.m. EDT (12 p.m. CET) and 2 p.m. EDT (7 p.m. CET). All times are estimates based on prior papal elections and predictions from the Vatican. Actual times can vary.
 ::snipping2::



Title: Re: Pope Benedict RESIGNING
Post by: grace-land on March 13, 2013, 02:18:14 PM
White smoke from Vatican!  We have a Pope!

Bells are ringing!


Title: Re: Pope Benedict RESIGNING
Post by: grace-land on March 13, 2013, 02:33:59 PM
http://www.huffingtonpost.com/2013/03/13/white-smoke-at-sistine-chapel-indicates-pope-election_n_2866095.html

White Smoke At Sistine Chapel Indicates Pope Election
Posted: 03/13/2013 2:10 pm EDT

(http://i.huffpost.com/gen/1036242/thumbs/r-WHITE-SMOKE-SISTINE-CHAPEL-large570.jpg?10)

White smoke appeared at the Sistine Chapel chimney on Wednesday afternoon indicating that a pope has been elected and has accepted the position. According to Catholic tradition, the newly appointed Bishop of Rome is the 266th successor of St. Peter and leader of the worldwide Catholic Church consisting of 1.2 billion Catholics.

The white smoke appeared at 7:05 p.m. CET (2:05 p.m. EDT / 11:05 a.m. PDT) time after five rounds of voting. In 2005, Benedict XVI was elected on the second day after four rounds of voting.
 ::snipping2::

Cardinal Jean-Louis Tauran, former president of the Pontifical Council for Interreligious Dialogue, will appear on the balcony of St. Peter's Basilica to shout "Habemus Papam!" ("We have a pope!). He'll present the new pope, who will be in white papal cassocks (three sizes are kept on reserve) and give his first blessing as pope.


Title: Re: Pope Benedict RESIGNING
Post by: Tamikosmom on March 13, 2013, 02:36:07 PM
New pope chosen: White smoke billows from Sistine Chapel chimney
Published Wednesday, Mar. 13, 2013 5:50AM EDT
Last Updated Wednesday, Mar. 13, 2013 2:19PM EDT


The Catholic church has elected a new pope.

White smoke is billowing from the Sistine Chapel chimney in St. Peter's Square, indicating a new spiritual leader has been chosen for the world's 1.2 billion Catholics.

It's not yet clear who the new pope is. But he is expected to appear on the balcony of St. Peter's Basilica within the hour before many faithful waiting to witness the first new pontiff in eight years.

<snipped>

http://www.ctvnews.ca/world/new-pope-chosen-white-smoke-billows-from-sistine-chapel-chimney-1.1193437


Title: Re: Pope Benedict RESIGNING
Post by: grace-land on March 13, 2013, 03:23:24 PM
Cardinal Bergoglio from Argentina!!!



Title: Re: Pope Benedict RESIGNING
Post by: MuffyBee on March 14, 2013, 01:24:18 PM
Grace-land requested we start a new thread for Pope Francis.   Please use the new thread for discussion, posting news articles and photos in regard to Pope Francis.   The thread we are currently in, "Pope Benedict RESIGNING" will continue to be open for discussion of  his holiness Emeritus Pope Benedict XVI.

Link to new thread:

POPE FRANCIS

http://scaredmonkeys.net/index.php?topic=14144.msg1554606#msg1554606


Title: Re: Pope Benedict RESIGNING
Post by: grace-land on March 20, 2013, 08:17:18 PM
http://en.radiovaticana.va/news/2013/03/20/pope_francis_calls_benedict_to_wish_him_happy_feast_day/en1-675035

2013-03-20 08:55:46
Pope Francis calls Benedict to wish him happy feast day

Vatican Radio) Pope Francis called Emeritus Pope Benedict to wish him a happy St. Joseph’s feast day March 19th. The Argentine Pope, who placed the call to his German predecessor Joseph Ratzinger shortly after 5:00 pm Rome time Tuesday, once again expressed gratitude to the emeritus pope for his long time service to the Church. The two enjoyed a lengthy and cordial conversation. Since his resignation February 28, Emeritus Pope Benedict has been staying at the papal summer residence in Castel Gandolfo, in the Rome countryside until restoration work on his new residence in the Vatican is completed. Benedict has followed with “intense participation” the events of these days, particularly Tuesday morning’s installation liturgy.  ::snipping2::


Title: Re: Pope Benedict RESIGNING
Post by: grace-land on April 12, 2013, 01:47:42 AM
http://www.catholicculture.org/news/headlines/index.cfm?storyid=17555

Pope-emeritus Benedict in rapid physical decline? Vatican denies report
April 10, 2013

The physical health of Pope-emeritus Benedict XVI is rapidly deteriorating, according to a Spanish reporter. The Vatican has denied the report.

Paloma Gomez Borrero of El Mundo said that Benedict is suffering from “something very serious.” The Spanish journalist did not name any specific disease, or cite any evidence aside from the frailty that was evident to observers when Benedict met with Pope Francis at Castel Gandolfo on March 23.

Father Federico Lombardi, the director of the Vatican press office, denied that the former Pope is suffering from any particular illness. His physical ailments, Father Lombardi said, are “those connected with age.”

Pope-emeritus Benedict has lost a significant amount of weight in recent weeks. He walks with increasing difficulty, reportedly has nearly lost vision in one eye, and has a history of cardiac problems. Nevertheless the Vatican has said that Benedict does not have any immediate life-threatening illness.   ::snipping2::


Title: Re: Pope Benedict RESIGNING
Post by: grace-land on April 15, 2013, 10:06:38 PM
Happy 86th Birthday, Pope Emeritus Benedict XVI   :smt113

Video at link

http://www.romereports.com/palio/benedict-xvi-turns-86-years-old-first-birthday-as-pope-emeritus-english-9778.html#.UWyqfL4o7IU

Benedict XVI turns 86 years old, first birthday as Pope emeritus
2013-04-15 18:21:00

April 15, 2013. (Romereports.com) One more candle on the birthday cake for Benedict XVI, and for the first time as Pope emeritus. He celebrates his 86th birthday in the intimacy of Castel Gandolfo. Eight years ago, on April 16, 2005, then-Cardinal Joseph Ratzinger turned 78 just two days before the start of of the conclave where he was elected Pope. 

During his pontificate, he celebrated seven birthdays with two concerts and Bavarian folk dances, but always working. In fact, in 2006, his first year as Pope, his birthday coincided with the Easter Sunday, where he asked for peace in Africa, Iraq, Israel and Palestine.

In  2007, Benedict XVI celebrated his 80 years at the tune of classical music. The Stuttgart Radio Symphonic Orchestra from Germany performed a concert for him at Paul VI Hall.

BENEDICT XVI
“At the end of this stupendous concert, which the Radio Symphonic Orchestra of Stuttgart gave us and elevated our spirits, I wish above all to greet all of you very cordially.”

One year later, in 2008 he packed his bags for the United States. In the morning of his birthday he met with President George W. Bush at the White House, and in the afternoon, with American bishops at the Basilica of the National Shrine of the Immaculate Conception.
 ::snipping2::


Title: Re: Pope Benedict RESIGNING
Post by: grace-land on April 16, 2013, 01:30:08 PM
http://en.radiovaticana.va/news/2013/04/16/portrait_of_pope-emeritus_benedict_xvi_unveiled_on_his_birthday/en1-683225

2013-04-16 11:33:08
Portrait of Pope-emeritus Benedict XVI unveiled on his birthday

(http://media01.radiovaticana.va/imm/1_0_683225.JPG)

(Vatican Radio) Pope-emeritus Benedict XVI is celebrating his 86th birthday on Tuesday. The German Embassy to the Holy See will be hosting a party which will unveil a new portrait of the former pontiff painted by German artist Michael Triegel, who is known as “Papstmaler”, or “Pope Painter”. The painting is on permanent loan to the Embassy.  ::snipping2::


Title: Re: Pope Benedict RESIGNING
Post by: grace-land on April 21, 2013, 02:20:13 PM
Video at the link

http://www.romereports.com/palio/today-marks-eight-year-anniversary-of-benedict-xvi-election-english-9817.html#.UXQi4b4o7IU

Today marks eight year anniversary of Benedict XVI election
2013-04-19  13:09:51

April 19, 2013. (Romereports.com) (-ONLY VIDEO-) On April 19, 2005, at 4:50PM white smoke billowed out of the chimney perched atop the Sistine Chapel. Cardinals had chosen Joseph Ratzinger as the new Pope.   

About an hour alter, he stepped out into the balcony overlooking St. Peter's Square, and the world met the man who would take over for John Paul II, Benedict XVI.   

It has been eight years now since that election. Ratzinger, who had just turned 78, took over the reins of the Catholic Church. He would preside over an intellectual pontificate, embedded with a deep theological perspective.  ::snipping2::


Title: Re: Pope Benedict RESIGNING
Post by: grace-land on April 21, 2013, 02:28:41 PM
http://catholicism.about.com/b/2013/04/19/the-anniversary-of-pope-benedict-xvis-election.htm

The Anniversary of Pope Benedict XVI's Election
April 19, 2013

Three days ago, on April 16, we celebrated an event that wasn't unprecedented but is certainly rare—indeed, it hasn't been observed in over 700 years: the birthday of a retired pope. And now we observe another rare event: the anniversary of the election of that same Pope Emeritus.

Eight years ago today, on April 19, 2005, Joseph Cardinal Ratzinger entered the second day of the conclave convened after the death of Pope John Paul II, and emerged as the successor of the man he had served faithfully for almost a quarter of a century. In a fascinating thread tying the 2005 conclave to the 2013 one, Pope Benedict XVI was elected after Jorge Cardinal Bergoglio begged the cardinal-electors who had been voting for him to cast their votes for Cardinal Ratzinger instead. (Another detail from the 2005 conclave is fascinating if true: Respected Italian Vaticanist Andrea Tornielli has reported that Cardinal Ratzinger entered the 2005 conclave intending to support the man who would become Pope Francis.)

In 2005, most Vatican watchers, and perhaps even a majority of the cardinal-electors, expected Pope Benedict to be a "transitional pope." That turned out to be true, though not in the way that they meant it. They thought that Pope Benedict would mark time, perhaps consolidating the legacy of Pope John Paul II, but certainly not extending it very far, much less creating a legacy of his own.

They were wrong. As I wrote in the wake of Pope Benedict's announcement of his resignation, "he has thrown himself enthusiastically into his pontificate, accomplishing more in just under eight years than many other popes have in twice that long."
 ::snipping2::

Comments section--

(1) A P O'Beachain says:

The Holy Spirit guides the Church and uses each Pope to highlight different aspects of Her Gospel Journey as needed. We can see the progress since Leo XIII who stated the Social Gospel principles and their renewal and application from his day until now. Pius XII with biblical studies renewal and setting the stage for Vatican 11, liturgical renewal, JXXX11 for the Council and happy joy and humanness, and peace, Paul V1 for world travel, JP1 for happy joy again, JP11 for global evangelisation, BXV1 for solid scholarship and gentlemanly leadership, now Francis for getting out of the sacristy into the street and down to earth practical love and more happy joy. They are not political leaders swinging from Left to Right but part of a continuum, a flow, leaders of a living body. So called leftist and rightist loud mouths grab headlines and side-track the public’s attention and the global media grind away with their own axes.
 ::snipping2::


Title: Re: Pope Benedict RESIGNING
Post by: grace-land on April 21, 2013, 02:36:55 PM
http://www.catholicworldreport.com/Item/2196/benedict_xvi_and_the_end_of_the_virtual_council.aspx#.UXQjwr4o7IU

Benedict XVI and the End of the “Virtual Council”
April 19, 2013

In one of the last acts of his pontificate, Benedict XVI gave an address to the clergy of the Diocese of Rome on the Second Vatican Council.  In the address he drew a distinction between what he termed the Virtual Council, or Council of the Media, and the Real Council or Council of those who actually produced the documents.  He observed that since the Council of the Media was accessible to everyone (not just to students of theology who studied the documents), it became the dominant interpretation of what happened at Vatican II, and this created “many disasters” and “much suffering.”  Specifically, he mentioned the closure of seminaries and convents, the promotion of banal liturgy, and the application of notions of popular sovereignty to issues of Church governance.  He concluded, however, that some 50 years after the Council, “this Virtual Council is broken, is lost.”

From what comes across my desk in theological literature there is still a lot of life in the Virtual Council, though it is true that it holds no enchantment for young seminarians or members of new ecclesial movements. Thus, the Church of the future, as a matter of demography, will be more closely oriented to the documents of the Real Council.   

The end of the “Virtual Council”

When Blessed John Paul II lay dying he said to the youth who had travelled to Rome to offer their prayerful support: “I have searched for you, and now you have come to me, and I thank you.”  Less irenically he might have said, “I have tried to get through to you, notwithstanding layers and layers of deaf and dumb bureaucrats, and now that I am dying, the fact that you are here means that at least some of you understood, and this is my consolation.” Similarly, Benedict seemed to be saying to the clergy of Rome, notwithstanding all the banality, all the pathetic liturgies, all the congregationalist ecclesiology, the Virtual Council of the Media has lost its dynamism.  It is no longer potent.  It no longer sets the course of human lives; it no longer inspires rebellion.  It too has become boring and sterile. 
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Title: Re: Pope Benedict RESIGNING
Post by: grace-land on April 21, 2013, 02:40:51 PM
http://catholicism.about.com/b/2013/04/19/remembering-pope-benedicts-visit-to-the-united-states.htm

Remembering Pope Benedict's Visit to the United States
April 19, 2013

Five years ago, April 15-20, 2008, Pope Benedict XVI made his first apostolic visit to the United States (and, we now know, his only one). While Pope John Paul II had an extensive itinerary during his first trip to the United States in 1979, Pope Benedict's agenda was more limited. Of course, the Holy Father celebrated his 81st birthday on his first full day in the United States, while Pope John Paul II was a mere 59 when he first kissed American soil.

Pope Benedict visited only two cities--Washington, D.C., and New York City--and held one public Mass in each. The Holy Father met with the bishops of the United States while in Washington, and he held two ecumenical meetings, one in each city. While in New York, he also addressed the United Nations.

Yet in the space of those five days, Pope Benedict may have sparked "a new Pentecost for the Church in America," a phrase he used throughout his trip and which lay at the center of his homily at a Mass for priests and religious at Saint Patrick's Cathedral. In the days after the Holy Father returned to Rome, I asked, "What Did Pope Benedict Hope to Accomplish?" I suspect that, five years later, the now-Pope Emeritus must be pleased to see a Catholic hierarchy in America that is speaking out strongly in defense of life, of marriage, of the prerogatives of the Church; and equally pleased to see the American faithful begin to treat the Catholic Faith as leaven for their entire lives, and not something that we just "do" on Sundays.
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Title: Re: Pope Benedict RESIGNING
Post by: grace-land on April 23, 2013, 08:53:04 PM
http://www.catholicworldreport.com/Item/2204/pope_benedict_xvis_legacy_faith_and_future.aspx#.UXcpa74o7IV

Pope Benedict XVI’s Legacy: Faith and Future
April 23, 2013
Six essential and enduring themes of the pontificate of the Pope Emeritus
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The new springtime for the Church hoped for by Blessed John Paul II has found its great advocate and defender in Benedict XVI.  He has been an indefatigable defender of Tradition and renewal in the light of both the Second Vatican Council and the crisis that has been its aftermath.  Perhaps one may call him a transitional pope.  However, work that he has done will prove pivotal to future of the Church willed by Christ.  Joseph Ratzinger was the guardian of the doctrine of the faith under Blessed John Paul II, and his resignation has given us the extraordinary conclave that elected Pope Francis.  But what he did in this transition was to make clear once again to the naysayers that, even in crisis, the Church is the only viable future, just as it was at the beginning when it was small and persecuted.

Prophetically, Joseph Ratzinger pronounced the keynote of his coming pontificate at the Mass Pro Eligendo Romano Pontifice just before the conclave that elected him began.  He contrasted the relativism of our age, the “being carried about by every wind of doctrine,” with the standard by which the Church judges a truly humane society, namely, the person of Jesus Christ.  Against what he famously called the “dictatorship of relativism” he pitted a faith fully embraced as a deep encounter with Christ:
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Title: Re: Pope Benedict RESIGNING
Post by: grace-land on May 03, 2013, 09:15:52 PM
http://www.washingtonpost.com/national/on-faith/benedict-comes-home-to-new-house-new-pope-as-unprecedented-phase-begins/2013/05/02/c0ba20ea-b30a-11e2-9fb1-62de9581c946_story.html

Benedict returns to Vatican for first time, meets with new pope and moves into new house
Published: May 2

VATICAN CITY — Emeritus Pope Benedict XVI came home to the Vatican on Thursday for the first time since he resigned Feb. 28, beginning an unprecedented era for the Catholic Church of having a retired pontiff living alongside a reigning one.

Pope Francis welcomed Benedict outside his new retirement home — a converted monastery on the edge of the Vatican gardens — and the two immediately went into the adjoining chapel to pray together, the Vatican said.

The Vatican said Benedict, 86, was pleased to be back and that he would — as he himself has said — “dedicate himself to the service of the church above all with prayer.” Francis, the statement said, welcomed him with “brotherly cordiality.”

A photo released by the Vatican showed the two men, arms clasped and both smiling, standing inside the doorway of Benedict’s new home as Benedict’s secretary looks on.

Unlike the live, door-to-door Vatican-provided television coverage that accompanied Benedict’s emotional farewell in February, the Vatican provided no television images of his return Thursday.

The low-key approach followed the remarkable yet somewhat alarming images transmitted on March 23 when Francis went to visit Benedict at the papal retreat in Castel Gandolfo, south of Rome, where Benedict was living. In that footage, Benedict appeared visibly more frail and thinner only three weeks after resigning.

Some Vatican officials questioned whether those images should have been released, given how frail Benedict appeared. Thursday’s photo showed no obvious signs of further decline.

The Vatican spokesman, the Rev. Federico Lombardi, has acknowledged Benedict’s post-retirement decline but has insisted the 86-year-old German isn’t suffering from any specific ailment and is just old.

“He is a man who is not young: He is old and his strength is slowly ebbing,” Lombardi said this week. “However, there is no special illness. He is an old man who is healthy.”
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Title: Re: Pope Benedict RESIGNING
Post by: grace-land on May 03, 2013, 09:23:35 PM
http://www.dailymail.co.uk/news/article-2318203/Ex-Pope-Benedict-returns-home-Vatican-today-live-door-Pope-Francis.html
PUBLISHED: 06:13 EST, 2 May 2013  | UPDATED: 04:28 EST, 3 May 2013

(http://i.dailymail.co.uk/i/pix/2013/05/03/article-2318203-1997FEDD000005DC-712_634x436.jpg)
Welcome home: Pope emeritus Benedict XVI, left, is welcomed by Pope Francis as he returns at the Vatican from the pontifical summer residence of Castel Gandolfo, south-east of Rome


Title: Re: Pope Benedict RESIGNING
Post by: grace-land on May 12, 2013, 01:34:52 AM
http://www.latintimes.com/articles/3778/20130509/vatican-santa-muerte-mexican-folk-death-saint.htm

Vatican Says Santa Muerte, Mexican Folk 'Death Saint,' Is Blasphemous, Symbolic Of Drug Wars
May 09, 2013 01:41 PM EDT

The president of the Vatican's Pontifical Council for Culture, Cardinal Gianfranco Ravasi declared worshipping the Mexican folk saint of death or Santa Muerte blasphemous. The Cardinal said "it's not religion just because it's dressed up like religion; it's blasphemy against religion," the BBC reports. 

The Mexican tradition of worshipping Santa Muerte is largely seen as a cult. It is growing in popularity among areas in Mexico ravaged by violence relating to drug and gang wars.
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Cardinal Ravasi was in Mexico speaking at a number of gatherings for believers and non-believers in order to help them find a way to God. The "Courtyard of the Gentiles" as the gathering is called, is a program started by Pope Benedict XVI in 2009 as a way of introducing God to non-believers, The Telegraph says.

The Cardinal denounced Santa Muerte at an event in Mexico City. He believes the Saint of Death sends the wrong message to Catholic children in Mexico because it is so popular among criminals, like gang members and drug lords.

"The mafia, drug trafficking and organized crime don't have a religious aspect and have nothing to do with religion, even if they use the image of Santa Muerte," the Cardinal said.

Followers who worship Santa Muerte pray to the figure of a female skeleton wearing a cloak and holding a scythe. They place the statue on an alter with offerings of "votive candles, fruit and tequila in the hope Santa Muerte will grant their wishes," BBC reports.
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Title: Re: Pope Benedict RESIGNING
Post by: grace-land on May 12, 2013, 01:53:00 AM
http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/world-latin-america-22462181

9 May 2013 Last updated at 06:36 ET
Vatican declares Mexican Death Saint blasphemous

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The cult, which reveres death, has been growing rapidly in Mexico.

It is represented by a cloaked female skeleton clutching a scythe.

It is particularly popular in areas of Mexico that have suffered from extreme violence carried out by the country's drug cartels.

The cult is believed to date back to colonial times.

It merges indigenous beliefs with the tradition of venerating saints introduced by Christian missionaries after the Spanish conquest of Mexico.
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There are no reliable figures showing how many people worship Santa Muerte, but academics studying the subject say more and more Santa Muerte shrines have been popping up in Mexico and the US, where the cult is popular with Mexican immigrants.

Last year, police in northern Mexico arrested eight people in connection with the killing of two boys and a woman in ritual sacrifices which prosecutors said were linked to the cult of Santa Muerte.


Title: Re: Pope Benedict RESIGNING
Post by: grace-land on June 08, 2013, 11:53:23 PM
http://www.catholicworldreport.com/Blog/2307/benedict_xvi_im_fine_i_live_like_a_monk.aspx#.UbP7ar4o7IU

Benedict XVI: “I’m fine. I live like a monk.”
June 06, 2013 05:11 EST

Catholic World News has a report on remarks Pope Emeritus Benedict XVI made to a friend visiting him in Rome:

“I’m fine. I live like a monk,” Benedict XVI told an old German friend who visited him recently at his new residence in the Mater Ecclesiae monastery on the Vatican grounds.

Manfred Lutz, a German scholar who is a member of the Pontifical Council for the Laity and the Pontifical Academy for Life, told Bild Zeitung that he found the retired Pontiff “physically weaker and a bit more stooped” than a few months earlier, but still mentally alert and cheerful. He said that the Pope-emeritus found himself thoroughly in accord with the theological statements of Pope Francis.
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Title: Re: Pope Benedict RESIGNING
Post by: grace-land on June 13, 2013, 10:47:53 PM
http://www.huffingtonpost.com/2013/06/13/pope-benedict-international-criminal-court-_n_3436720.html

Pope Benedict XVI International Criminal Court Investigation Requested By Clergy Sex Abuse Victims Rejected
Posted: 06/13/2013 2:33 pm EDT

NEW YORK -- The International Criminal Court has rejected a longshot request by clergy sex abuse victims to investigate former Pope Benedict XVI and Vatican cardinals for possible crimes against humanity.

The tribunal, based in The Hague, told attorneys for the Survivors Network of those Abused by Priests that "there is not a basis at this time to proceed with further analysis."

"The matters described in your communication do not appear to fall within the jurisdiction of the court," a court official wrote in a May 31 letter to the Center for Constitutional Rights, the nonprofit legal group that represents the victims. The legal organization released the letter Thursday.
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Title: Re: Pope Benedict RESIGNING
Post by: grace-land on June 21, 2013, 04:55:49 PM
http://en.radiovaticana.va/news/2013/06/21/paul_vi_-_part_1:_at_the_helm_in_choppy_waters..._/en1-702595

2013-06-21 09:22:53
Paul VI - Part 1: at the helm in choppy waters...

(http://media01.radiovaticana.va/imm/1_0_702595.JPG)

(Vatican Radio ) Pope Paul VI, Giovanni Battista Montini was elected as Successor of Peter fifty years ago on the 21st June 1963.

On December 20, 2012 Benedict XVI, now Pope Emeritus, signed a decree recognising the "heroic virtues" of a Pope chosen to lead the Catholic Church at a crucial time in its history, finding himself with the delicate task of closing and implementing the Second Vatican Council.

It's a decree which highlights the value of a Pope who was not always fully understood. One who was described at the time as a man full of contradictions, bafflling yet brilliant, austere yet personable, enigmatic yet firm in his authority.
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Title: Re: Pope Benedict RESIGNING
Post by: grace-land on June 25, 2013, 10:07:37 PM
http://ncronline.org/news/vatican/retired-popes-eyes-are-bright-and-joyous-says-longtime-friend

Retired pope's eyes 'are bright and joyous,' says longtime friend
Jun. 25, 2013 

Maynooth, Ireland--   
One of retired Pope Benedict XVI's oldest confidants downplayed concerns about the pontiff's health, saying his friend was mentally and physically "fresh."
 
Salvatorian Fr. Stephan Otto Horn, president of the "Ratzinger Schulerkreis" (Ratzinger Student Circle), told Catholic News Service he met the retired pope in Rome in early June, and he acknowledged his mentor was frail.

"He is 86 now. At that age you are not so strong, but he seemed to me to be very fresh. His memory is fresh and his eyes are very bright and joyous," he said.
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Horn also told CNS that Pope Benedict said Pope Francis had been trying to convince him to go to Castel Gandolfo for a vacation, while he was trying to convince Pope Francis to take a vacation there.

"He told me he had told Pope Francis that if (Francis) couldn't go there for a long time, then he should at least go there for Aug. 15, the feast of the Assumption, which the pope traditionally spends with the people of Castel Gandolfo," Horn said.

Speaking to CNS at the Divine Word Missionaries school in Maynooth, during a symposium on the theology of Joseph Ratzinger, Father Horn said: "After the (Feb. 11) resignation it was difficult for him for three weeks, but after those three weeks, his well-being began improving. And he is very interested in everything," said the priest, who is in regular communication with his former mentor.

Of his decision to resign, Horn said Pope Benedict was "convinced his decision was the right one," and was happy and serene with it.
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Title: Re: Pope Benedict RESIGNING
Post by: grace-land on July 09, 2013, 12:25:35 AM
Video at the link

http://www.romereports.com/palio/benedict-xvi-and-francis-meet-in-the-vatican-gardens-english-10478.html#.UduPQr4o7IU

Benedict XVI and Francis meet in the Vatican Gardens
2013-07-06 10:00:00

July 6, 2013 (Romereports.com) Pope Francis and Pope Emeritus Benedict XVI met at the Vatican gardens for the unveiling of a new statue representing St. Michael Archangel, the universal protector of the Church and patron of Vatican City.

Benedict XVI, who was invited by Pope Francis, was welcomed with a great applause. The most moving moment was when the two Popes hugged. They also sat next to each other throughout the ceremony.
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Title: Re: Pope Benedict RESIGNING
Post by: grace-land on July 09, 2013, 12:40:01 AM
http://www.catholicregister.org/columns/item/16561-pope-consecrates-vatican-city-to-st-joseph-st-michael-the-archangel

Pope consecrates Vatican City to St. Joseph, St. Michael the Archangel
Monday, 08 July 2013 11:10

(http://www.catholicregister.org/media/k2/items/cache/8ce89955afd6e69fd03a186fbefc9f26_M.jpg)
Pope Francis, right, embraces retired Pope Benedict XVI during a ceremony in the Vatican gardens July 5. During the service, Pope Francis blessed a new statue of St. Michael the Archangel and recited separate prayers to consecrate Vatican City to St. Jo seph and to St. Michael. - CNS photo/L'Osservatore Romano via Reuters

VATICAN CITY - With retired Pope Benedict XVI sitting next to him, Pope Francis formally recited separate prayers to consecrate Vatican City to St. Joseph and to St. Michael the Archangel.
 
The early morning ceremony in the Vatican Gardens July 5 featured the unveiling of a new statue of St. Michael, sculpted by Giuseppe Antonio Lomuscio. The project, along with a fountain by Franco Murer dedicated to St. Joseph, was initiated under Pope Benedict.
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Title: Re: Pope Benedict RESIGNING
Post by: grace-land on August 04, 2013, 05:57:39 PM
http://www.catholicculture.org/news/headlines/index.cfm?storyid=18642

Benedict XVI is not ill, but will not write again, brother says
August 01, 2013

Msgr. Georg Ratzinger told a German interviewer that his younger brother, Pope-emeritus Benedict XVI, experienced “great relief” when he resigned.

The former Pontiff has “no acute illness,” Msgr. Ratzinger said. But he realized that he could no longer work a full schedule, and believes that a 21st-century Pope “cannot, as used to be possible, simply cut back.”
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Title: Re: Pope Benedict RESIGNING
Post by: grace-land on August 04, 2013, 06:07:49 PM
The Pope Benedict Forum
A discussion of Pope Benedict XVI and his pontificate


Credit:  Benodette

http://theratzingerforum.yuku.com/reply/73225/Re-Papal-apartment-and-family#.Uf7LeL4o7IW

Dom Radio - Michael Hesemann interviewed Georg Ratzinger on the publication of Hesemann's new book "Pope Francis, the Legacy Benedict XVI and the future of the Church" The title was released on Wednesday in Munich by Herbig Verlag.

The resignation of Pope Benedict XVI. was, in the words of his brother Georg Ratzinger, "a great relief". After a period of transition has seemed to gradually recover.

Monsignor Ratzinger explains in an interview the reasons that prompted his brother to retire as head of the church. Disappointment over the Vatileaks scandal played no role, the 89-year-old claimed. Also it is not true that Benedict XVI resigned for fear of a stroke. His brother has "no acute illness" he says.

Georg Ratzinger said that the Pope's decision came after his return from Mexico in late March 2012. At that time the doctors had discouraged him from travelling so far. But because of World Youth Day in Brazil and a visit to the Philippines was possible "he believed it was no longer to be the right thing to remain in office." The demands on a Pope today are much greater than they were even 50 years ago. "He must be in full possession of his powers, and cannot, as used to be possible, to simply cut back."

According to his brother Benedict XVI has nothing more to write. "His literary work is completed, there will be no further publications," Ratzinger said

Georg Ratzinger said his brother did not know his successor well before his election.

Pope Francis was apparently a blank slate for. Benedict XVI. He never talked about Jorge Mario Bergoglio, George Ratzinger said. "I think he did not know him well, probably only slightly".

Monsignor Ratzinger said his brother knows the new style which his successor has introduced is unfamiliar to people and some may be preparing for trouble because he does many things differently than before. On the question of whether Benedict XVI welcomes the changes he said "He never really talks about it, because he does not want there to be any possibility of him standing in the way of his successor or to cause him difficulties or problems of any sort, but he also appreciates him very much."
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Title: Re: Pope Benedict RESIGNING
Post by: grace-land on August 21, 2013, 11:17:02 PM
http://www.todayscatholicnews.org/2013/08/officials-dubious-of-retired-popes-extraordinary-mystical-experience/

Officials dubious of retired pope’s extraordinary ‘mystical experience’
By Cindy Wooden

VATICAN CITY (CNS) — When Pope Benedict XVI announced his resignation in February, he made it very clear that he had done so only after intense prayer and that he intended to live the rest of his life praying and studying.

Vatican officials and Vatican watchers were surprised in late August when a report circulated that Pope Benedict had told an anonymous visitor that his decision was the result of some form of extraordinary “mystical experience” rather than a decision made after long and careful thought and deep prayer. Catholics traditionally would consider that kind of intense prayer a “mystical experience,” although not something extraordinary.

Those skeptical of the report, carried in the Italian service of the Zenit news agency, quoted Pope Benedict’s explanation in his own announcement Feb. 11: “After having repeatedly examined my conscience before God, I have come to the certainty that my strengths, due to an advanced age, are no longer suited to an adequate exercise of the Petrine ministry.”

He also told the cardinals that he wanted to dedicate the rest of his life to serving the church through his prayers.
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In a report Aug. 19, Zenit said someone who had visited Pope Benedict “a few weeks ago” had asked him why he resigned. “God told me to,” the retired pope was quoted as responding before “immediately clarifying that it was not any kind of apparition of phenomenon of that kind, but rather ‘a mystical experience’ in which the Lord gave rise in his heart to an ‘absolute desire’ to remain alone with him in prayer.”

Posted on August 21, 2013


Title: Re: Pope Benedict RESIGNING
Post by: grace-land on August 22, 2013, 11:26:13 PM
http://www.catholicculture.org/news/headlines/index.cfm?storyid=18807

Pope Benedict changed phrase in Baptism ceremony
August 22, 2013

Before his resignation took effect, Pope Benedict XVI made a small but important change in the text of the ceremony for Baptism.
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The change, which Pope Benedict authorized before he resigned, formally took effect on March 31—when Pope Francis had already taken office. The new wording has not been announced by the Vatican, but appeared in the official bulletin Notitiae, published by the Congregation for Divine Worship.

The new wording applies immediately only to the Latin version of the Baptismal liturgy. National bishops’ conferences will be asked to plan for the introduction of appropriate translations in their own languages.

In English, a simple translation would change one line in the Baptism ceremony. The sentence: “The Christian community welcomes you with great joy,” would presumably become: “The Church of God welcomes you with great joy.”  


Title: Re: Pope Benedict RESIGNING
Post by: grace-land on August 28, 2013, 10:15:48 PM
Video at the link

http://www.romereports.com/palio/benedict-xvi-will-celebrate-mass-with-former-students-at-vatican-english-10869.html#.Uh6o3r4o7IU

Benedict XVI will celebrate Mass with former students at Vatican
2013-08-28 18:54:20

August 28, 2013. (Romereports.com) Benedict XVI will not attend the annual gathering that his former students have organized for over 30 years now to debate on theology. This weekend's event will take place at Castel Gandolfo, but on Sunday the Pope emeritus will celebrate Mass with them at the Vatican.   

FR. STEPHEN OTTO HORN
Coordinator, Ratzinger Schülerkreis

“We are naturally sad that he will not be attending the theological discussions. But we are very happy to celebrate the Holy Mass with him at the Vatican. So he will not be entirely absent, but he will be at the Eucharist, where we'll have the chance to say 'good morning.' Each one of us can say 'good morning' to him.” 

Benedict XVI's former students will meet from August 29 to September 2. After his resignation, their professor decided he would not longer assist these gatherings, and would remain under retirement at the Vatican.
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Title: Re: Pope Benedict RESIGNING
Post by: grace-land on September 02, 2013, 01:34:34 PM
Video at the link

http://www.romereports.com/palio/benedict-xvi-celebrates-mass-at-the-vatican-for-former-students-english-10911.html#.UiTMer4o7IV

Benedict XVI celebrates Mass at the Vatican for former students
2013-09-02 18:21:57

September 2, 2013. (Romereports.com) Benedict XVI celebrated on Sunday a Mass with his former students at the Chapel of the Vatican Governate. The "Circle of Former Ratzinger Students” have met for a few days each summer for the past 30 years to debate several theological questions.   

PROF. REAL TREMBLAY
Former Benedict XVI student

“He was doing very well, though, naturally, he showed his age, and he walked with trouble. He has a quiet voice, but his mind is still sharp. He is still very magnificent. He gave a splendid homily, and then, of course, I was, able to speak with him for a bit afterward.” 

The "Circle of Former Ratzinger Students” have met for a few days each summer for the past 30 years to debate several theological questions. This time, the theme was “the question of God in the context of secularization.” This year, the meeting had an added element of excitement for the Pope emeritus' followers.

PROF. REAL TREMBLAY
Former Benedict XVI student

“It's always a special event to meet up with former Ratzinger students, since had worked together, we fought together, we had gotten to know this formidable man, Professor Ratzinger, over time. And now we could greet him. We were overjoyed to be with him, to remember all the things we went through back then.” 
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Title: Re: Pope Benedict RESIGNING
Post by: grace-land on September 17, 2013, 10:50:23 PM
Links for the eBook are provided at the end of the article.

http://www.pccs.va/index.php/en/news2/attualita/item/1665-vatican-media-office-launches-an-ebook-with-pope-benedict-xvi-s-annual-messages-for-world-communications-day

Tuesday, 17 September 2013 00:00   
Vatican Media office launches an eBook with Pope Benedict XVI's annual messages for World Communications Day

(www.pccs.va) The Pontifical Council for Social Communication has published an eBook entitled, "Benedict XVI: World Communications Day Messages".

The eBook, which is free, contains the eight messages released during Pope Benedict XVI's pontificate. The digital publication is a first for the Council and intended as a test for audience interest in such publications for the future.
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An "ePub Version" can be downloaded directly to Apple and Android devices. For the "Kindle Version", it is necessary to download it to your computer first and then add it to your library.

Click here for: ePub Version for eBooks

Click here for: Kindle Version


Title: Re: Pope Benedict RESIGNING
Post by: grace-land on September 24, 2013, 10:01:26 PM
http://en.radiovaticana.va/news/2013/09/24/pope-emeritus_exchanges_letters_with_noted_atheist_philosopher_/en1-731321

2013-09-24 13:27:07
Pope-emeritus exchanges letters with noted atheist philosopher

(Vatican Radio) Pope-emeritus Benedict XVI has had an exchange of letters with the noted Italian mathematician and philosopher, Piergiorgio Odifreddi, excerpts from which appeared in the Tuesday edition of the Italian daily, La Repubblica. At the beginning of September, Benedict sent a lengthy and detailed response to criticisms the atheist thinker Odifreddi had published in his volume, Caro papa ti scrivo, a book-length essay that was itself a critique of certain arguments and lines of thought found in the Pope-emeritus’ theological writings, starting from his 1967 volume, Introduction to Christianity. Listen to our report: RealAudioMP3

The context of the exchange is therefore that of an ongoing conversation about the contents and merits of a lifetime of public intellectual engagement. The topics covered in the exchange range from the abuse crisis in the Church, to the question whether theology can properly be considered a science to the need for frank and open dialogue among believers and non-believers
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Title: Re: Pope Benedict RESIGNING
Post by: grace-land on September 24, 2013, 10:05:52 PM
http://www.catholicnews.com/data/stories/cns/1304027.htm

Sep-24-2013
Pope Benedict challenges atheist, says he never hid abuse cases

VATICAN CITY (CNS) -- In a letter to an atheist Italian mathematician, retired Pope Benedict XVI defended his own handling of allegations of the sexual abuse of minors by clergy and politely criticized the logician's total reliance on scientific facts for meaning.

"I never sought to conceal these things," the pope said of cases of clerical abuse, and lamented the scholar depicting the church as the only place where such "deviation" and "filth" occur.

The publication of the retired pope's comments Sept. 24 to an atheist scholar came the same month a written letter by Pope Francis to an Italian journalist concerning dialogue with nonbelievers was published. Both letters were published, with the two popes' permission, by the Italian daily La Repubblica.

The paper released long excerpts of Pope Benedict's original 11-page response to Piergiorgio Odifreddi, a prolific science writer who authored the book, "Dear Pope, I Write to You" in 2011. The book, presented as a letter to Pope Benedict, proposes the superiority of a worldview in which belief should stem only from things that can be understood and empirically known over worldviews that include belief in things that cannot be fully understood or known.

The pope's response, dated Aug. 30, thanked Odifreddi for seeking to juxtapose his ideas against the pope's own writings "and, thus, with my faith."

The pope, who has long engaged in dialogue with nonbelievers, most notably with his "Courtyard of the Gentiles" initiative and his 2011 Assisi gathering, said he appreciated Odifreddi's efforts to engage in a frank and open dialogue with the Catholic faith.

However, the pope said he met "with deep dismay" Odifreddi's unspecified comments about the clerical abuse scandals.

The pope, who was the first pontiff to meet with abuse victims, had spoken out forcefully against "the filth" in the church, clarified church laws to expedite cases, and mandated bishops' conferences put in place stringent norms against abuse, among a number of other initiatives.
 ::snipping3::


Title: Re: Pope Benedict RESIGNING
Post by: grace-land on September 24, 2013, 10:47:06 PM
Two-page article.  Interesting and informative in my opinion.

http://www.washingtonpost.com/national/on-faith/benedict-francis-reach-out-to-atheists-in-apparent-papal-campaign-to-engage-non-believers/2013/09/24/9290945e-2517-11e3-9372-92606241ae9c_story.html

Benedict emerges from silence, defends his abuse record in letter to prominent Italian atheist
Updated: Tuesday, September 24, 5:13 PM

VATICAN CITY — Seven months after leaving the papacy, emeritus Pope Benedict XVI broke his self-imposed silence Tuesday by releasing a letter to one of Italy’s best-known atheists in which he denied covering up for sexually abusive priests and defended Christianity to non-believers.

It was the first work published by Benedict since he retired and his first-ever denial of personal responsibility for the sex scandal. But what made the letter published in La Repubblica more remarkable was that it appeared just two weeks after Pope Francis penned a similar letter to the newspaper’s atheist editor.

The Vatican spokesman, the Rev. Federico Lombardi, said the appearance of the letters was pure coincidence. But they provide evidence that the two men in white, who live across the Vatican gardens from one another, are of the same mind about the need for such dialogue and may even be collaborating on it.

Benedict wrote his letter to Piergiorgio Odifreddi, an Italian atheist and mathematician who in 2011 wrote a book titled “Dear Pope, I’m Writing to You.” The book was Odifreddi’s reaction to Benedict’s classic “Introduction to Christianity,” perhaps his best-known work.

In his book, Odifreddi posed a series of polemical arguments about the Catholic faith, including the church’s sex abuse scandal.
 ::snipping3::


Title: Re: Pope Benedict RESIGNING
Post by: grace-land on December 07, 2013, 09:48:45 PM
Video at the link

pg155014-georg-ganswein-benedict-is-very-lucid-and-every-now-and-then-he-welcomes-guests-en

Georg Gänswein: Benedict is very lucid and every now and then he welcomes guests
2013-12-07

Monsignor Georg Gänswein works closely with two Popes. He is the Prefect of the Pontifical Household for Pope Francis, and personal secretary of Benedict XVI. He is one of very few people that come in contact with the two, on a daily basis.

He lives with Benedict XVI at the Mater Ecclesiae monastery. He says, the Pope emeritus welcomes guests from time to time.

MSGR. GEORG GANSWEIN
Prefect for the Pontifical Household

"He does receive guests. But a healthy amount, so not too many. It has to be enjoyable, and not a burden.”

As a matter of fact, not too far from now, Benedict XVI will receive a very special guest. His brother Georg Ratzinger will spend a few days with him at the Vatican.
 ::snipping3::
And with Christmas looming, everyone inside the Vatican, even the Pope emeritus, are getting ready to celebrate.

MSGR. GEORG GANSWEIN
Prefect for the Pontifical Household

"Advent for any German is very beautiful because we have a clear devotion, very defined, and this applies also to Pope Benedict.”

A few months after the New Year, Pope Francis will canonize John Paul II. Msgr. Georg  Gänswein said he doesn't know if Benedict XVI will attend the ceremony, but he added, it is a possibility.


Title: Re: Pope Benedict RESIGNING
Post by: Sister on December 20, 2013, 03:33:41 PM
It is so good to read his health is improving!
 ::HelloKitty::


Title: Re: Pope Benedict RESIGNING
Post by: grace-land on December 20, 2013, 08:55:03 PM
It is so good to read his health is improving!
 ::HelloKitty::

 ::HelloKitty::  Good to see you in this thread for Pope Emeritus Benedict!  Yes, his physical health seems to have  improved; but I worry about him often.  I have admired him even before his pontificate--a humble and holy man, a brilliant mind, and an outstanding theologian imo.


Title: Re: Pope Benedict RESIGNING
Post by: grace-land on December 28, 2013, 10:48:25 PM
http://www.patheos.com/blogs/publiccatholic/2013/12/pope-benedicts-last-general-audience-the-pope-belongs-to-everyone/

2013 Favs: Pope Benedict’s Last General Audience: The Pope Belongs to Everyone
December 28, 2013

(http://wp.patheos.com.s3.amazonaws.com/blogs/publiccatholic/files/2012/12/Pope_Benedict_XVI_Credit_Mazur_catholicnewsorguk_CNA_Vatican_Catholic_News_5_21_12.jpg)

“’Always’ is also ‘forever’–there is no return to private life. My decision to renounce the active exercise of the ministry does not revoke this. I am not returning to private life, to a life of trips, meetings, receptions, conferences, etc. I am not abandoning the cross, but am remaining beside the Crucified Lord in a new way. I no longer bear the power of the office for the governance of the Church, but I remain in the service of prayer, within St. Peter’s paddock, so to speak.

Pope Benedict XVI gave his last general audience in St Peter’s Square before tens of thousands of people who came to say goodbye.

He told them, and all of us …

“I can say that the Lord has guided me. He has been close to me. I have felt His presence every day.”

“I would like to invite everyone to renew their firm trust in the Lord, to entrust ourselves like children to God’s arms, certain that those arms always hold us up … a

“I would like everyone to feel beloved of that God who gave His Son for us.

“I would like everyone to feel the joy of being Christian.

“In a beautiful prayer, which can be recited every morning, say: ‘I adore you, my God and I love you with all my heart. Thank you for having created me, for having made me Christian…”

“The Pope belongs to everyone … I also receive many letters from ordinary people who write to me simply from their hearts and make me feel their affection, which is born of our being together with Christ Jesus, in the Church. These people do not write to me the way one would write, for example, to a prince or a dignitary that they don’t know. They write to me as brothers and sisters or as sons and daughters, with the sense of a very affectionate family tie. In this you can touch what the Church is—not an organization, not an association for religious or humanitarian ends, but a living body, a communion of brothers and sisters in the Body of Jesus Christ who unites us all.”

The entire text of the Holy Father’s remarks, taken from the Vatican website, is below:
 ::snipping3::


Title: Re: Pope Benedict RESIGNING
Post by: grace-land on January 03, 2014, 09:53:04 PM
http://ncronline.org/blogs/all-things-catholic/top-five-under-covered-catholic-stories-2013

The top five under-covered Catholic stories of 2013
by John L. Allen Jr.     |  Jan. 3, 2014

It's an "All Things Catholic" tradition to dedicate the first column of the new year to the most under-covered Catholic stories of the previous 12 months, which in the past has always seemed a good use of time given the sporadic and often radically incomplete coverage the church typically draws.
 
This year, however, it feels a little silly to be talking about Catholicism as under-covered, given the astronomic media interest generated by the resignation of Benedict XVI and the rise of Francis.
 ::snipping3::
For purposes of this countdown, I'm omitting already-familiar storylines that have temporarily been shoved to the backburner -- the sex abuse crisis, for instance, or the crackdown on American nuns, or controversy in the States over the Obama contraception mandates. They were amply covered before and doubtless will be again.

Instead, I focus on five storylines that never really had much traction, especially in American and English-language media, and that are worth another look.
 ::snipping3::
1. Benedict the revolutionary

Despite images of Francis as a maverick, by far the single most revolutionary act committed by a pope in 2013 came from Benedict XVI in the form of his stunning decision to voluntarily renounce his office. Sometimes lost in the shuffle amid the frenzy over Francis is that Benedict was actually the prime mover in the drama.

Benedict, of course, never had much luck when it came to PR.

He came into office with a prefabricated narrative about being "God's Rottweiler" and "the Vatican's enforcer" and was never really able to shake it. In terms of public opinion, the difference between Benedict and Francis is perhaps best expressed this way: Under Benedict, people assumed that whatever they didn't like about the church was because of the pope; now, they tend to think it's in spite of the pope.

As a result, the tendency is to frame Benedict and Francis almost as matter and antimatter -- tradition vs. innovation, dogmatism vs. compassion, etc. Apart from the debatable merit of those perceptions, what they ignore is that Francis would not have happened without Benedict's decision to stand aside.

Equally notable is the way he's handled his departure. In his final address to the cardinals Feb. 28, Benedict pledged "unconditional reverence and obedience" to his successor, and he's held up his end of the deal. Other than a private letter he sent to an Italian atheist that was leaked by the recipient, Benedict has only been seen or heard in public when Francis has come calling or invited him to something.

Despite well-documented umbrage among some about the new direction under Francis, Benedict has done nothing to encourage a "loyal opposition" or to legitimize dissent from the new regime.

In effect, Benedict has gone from infallibility to near-invisibility, and entirely by his own choice. If that's not a "miracle of humility in an era of vanity," to invoke Elton John's Vanity Fair tribute to Francis back in June, it's hard to know what would be.

At a substantive level, several of the reforms for which Francis is drawing credit, including his cleanup of Vatican finances and his commitment to "zero tolerance" on sex abuse, amount to continuations of policies that began under Benedict.

Even if that weren't the case, the point remains that the "Francis effect" might have been lost to history without Benedict taking a step no pope had taken in 600 years -- and given the markedly different circumstances, one could argue it's a step no pope had ever taken in quite this way.

No question about it, Francis is shaking up the Catholic church and offering it a new lease on life. For the record, however, he wasn't the only maverick, the only revolutionary pope, of 2013.



Title: Re: Pope Benedict RESIGNING
Post by: Sister on January 04, 2014, 06:49:43 PM
great article -- I wholeheartedly agree!

What a man of God!


Title: Re: Pope Benedict RESIGNING
Post by: grace-land on January 04, 2014, 11:44:16 PM
great article -- I wholeheartedly agree!

What a man of God!

I agree!   ::MonkeyAngel::


Title: Re: Pope Benedict RESIGNING
Post by: grace-land on January 09, 2014, 09:46:36 PM
Keeping Msgr. Georg Ratzinger in my prayers.  ::MonkeyAngel::

http://www.catholicculture.org/news/headlines/index.cfm?storyid=20120

Benedict leaves Vatican to visit elder brother in Rome hospital
CWN - January 06, 2014

Pope-emeritus Benedict XVI made a rare trip outside the walls of the Vatican to visit his older brother, Msgr. Georg Ratzinger, in a Roman hospital this past weekend.

Msgr. Ratzinger was confined to the Gemelli hospital after traveling to Rome, from his home in Germany, to be with his brother for Christmas. There has been no public disclosure about his medical condition.
 ::snipping3::
After the hospital visit he returned directly to his Vatican residence.


Title: Re: Pope Benedict RESIGNING
Post by: grace-land on January 15, 2014, 09:36:46 PM
http://www.catholicculture.org/news/headlines/index.cfm?storyid=20205

Pope-emeritus hosts 90th birthday celebration for elder brother
January 15, 2014

Msgr. Georg Ratzinger, the older brother of Pope-emeritus Benedict XVI, celebrated his 90th birthday at the Vatican on January 15.

After morning Mass at the Mater Ecclesiae residence, where the retired Pontiff now lives, Msgr. Ratzinger and his brother enjoyed a festive meal, with birthday greetings sung in the Bavarian fashion. In the afternoon they attended a concert at a Vatican Radio facility in the Vatican gardens, with performances by friends of Msgr. Ratzinger—himself a musician of note, who for years was the music director at the cathedral in Regensburg, Germany.
 ::snipping3::
------------------
Video at the link
http://www.romereports.com/pg155440-georg-ratzinger-celebrates-his-90-birthday-in-the-vatican-with-benedict-xvi-en
Georg Ratzinger celebrates his 90 birthday in the Vatican with Benedict XVI
2014-01-15

January 15th marks Msgr. Georg Ratzinger 90th birthday. He's celebrating it at the Vatican along with his younger brother, Pope emeritus Benedict XVI. The celebration will be private and will include a classical music concert. Georg is the last living relative of Benedict XVI, and his closest friend.
 ::snipping3::



Title: Re: Pope Benedict RESIGNING
Post by: grace-land on January 19, 2014, 12:41:45 AM
http://www.foxnews.com/opinion/2014/01/17/honor-lifetime-performing-at-vatican-for-pope-benedict-his-brother/

Honor of a lifetime -- performing at the Vatican for Pope Benedict, his brother
By Lauren Green
Published January 17, 2014

Pope Benedict XVI is somewhat a forgotten man these days. The pope emeritus, who shocked the world when he resigned last spring, is usually referenced now only in stories about his successor, Pope Francis, who’s become the darling of the press, especially in the West.

But in the cloistered Vatican City, Pope Benedict is still very much revered and respected. I know this because I was privileged enough to be invited to perform in a private concert there Wednesday, January 15th, in honor of Benedict’s brother’s 90th Birthday.
 ::snipping3::
A total of about 50 people attended, mostly staff and clergy. Benedict entered the room first, as homage to his brother, the guest of honor. Dressed in papal white cassock and coat and brown shoes, Benedict, who appears less frail than before his retirement, was accompanied by his longtime aide, Archbishop Georg Gaenswein. All stood and applauded. Then all remained standing while the monsignor entered.

The classical music we performed was a combination of both sacred and secular, including violinist Pawlik’s incredibly beautiful Meditation from Thais by Jules Massenet. Pawlik also joined Noeth for a duet of Cesar Franck’s Panis Angelicus. Noeth also sang a selection of arias. I performed three pieces, the second of which was Sposalizio, by Franz Liszt. It was specially chosen for the concert. It is inspired by Raphael’s famous painting of the same name. It is of the wedding of the Virgin Mary and Joseph. The names of which also belong to the parents the Ratzinger brothers. Now the two brothers are all that remain of their family.

After the concert, both Benedict and his brother seemed quite moved. Benedict immediately came over to the performers and thanked each one of us individually. Photos were taken, and memories were made that will last a lifetime.
 


Title: Re: Pope Benedict RESIGNING
Post by: Sister on January 27, 2014, 08:45:24 AM
http://www.foxnews.com/opinion/2014/01/17/honor-lifetime-performing-at-vatican-for-pope-benedict-his-brother/

Honor of a lifetime -- performing at the Vatican for Pope Benedict, his brother
By Lauren Green
Published January 17, 2014

Pope Benedict XVI is somewhat a forgotten man these days. The pope emeritus, who shocked the world when he resigned last spring, is usually referenced now only in stories about his successor, Pope Francis, who’s become the darling of the press, especially in the West.

But in the cloistered Vatican City, Pope Benedict is still very much revered and respected. I know this because I was privileged enough to be invited to perform in a private concert there Wednesday, January 15th, in honor of Benedict’s brother’s 90th Birthday.
 ::snipping3::
A total of about 50 people attended, mostly staff and clergy. Benedict entered the room first, as homage to his brother, the guest of honor. Dressed in papal white cassock and coat and brown shoes, Benedict, who appears less frail than before his retirement, was accompanied by his longtime aide, Archbishop Georg Gaenswein. All stood and applauded. Then all remained standing while the monsignor entered.

The classical music we performed was a combination of both sacred and secular, including violinist Pawlik’s incredibly beautiful Meditation from Thais by Jules Massenet. Pawlik also joined Noeth for a duet of Cesar Franck’s Panis Angelicus. Noeth also sang a selection of arias. I performed three pieces, the second of which was Sposalizio, by Franz Liszt. It was specially chosen for the concert. It is inspired by Raphael’s famous painting of the same name. It is of the wedding of the Virgin Mary and Joseph. The names of which also belong to the parents the Ratzinger brothers. Now the two brothers are all that remain of their family.

After the concert, both Benedict and his brother seemed quite moved. Benedict immediately came over to the performers and thanked each one of us individually. Photos were taken, and memories were made that will last a lifetime.
 

BBM

what an opportunity of a life time!


Title: Re: Pope Benedict RESIGNING
Post by: grace-land on January 29, 2014, 11:22:14 PM
 :smt054

http://www.foxnews.com/opinion/2014/01/23/it-was-god-thing-adventures-in-faith-on-way-to-concert-for-pope-benedict-his/

It was a God thing -- adventures in faith on the way to concert for Pope Benedict, his brother
By Lauren Green/ Published January 23, 2014

(http://global.fncstatic.com/static/managed/img/Opinion/660-Lauren-Benedict.jpg)
January 15, 2014: Lauren Green greets Pope Emeritus Benedict at the Vatican. (Courtesy of the author)

I recently performed in a private concert at the Vatican in Rome for Pope Benedict XVI (the Emeritus), in honor of his brother's, Monsignor Georg Ratzinger's 90th birthday.

To be asked to perform for the pope seemed like Divine intervention alone. But other things happened that convinced me God’s hand was in it, guiding my path.
  ::snipping3::


Title: Re: Pope Benedict RESIGNING
Post by: grace-land on January 29, 2014, 11:25:34 PM
 ::MonkeyNoNo::

http://www.lifesitenews.com/blog/the-belittling-and-tearing-down-of-the-pontificate-of-pope-benedict-is-acce/

The belittling and tearing down of the pontificate of Pope Benedict is accelerating
Wed Jan 29, 2014 21:45 EST

The belittling and tearing down of the pontificate of Pope Benedict is accelerating in conjunction with the growing adulation of Pope Francis in the secular world and among the "progessive" dissidents within the Church.

Benedict did what he was called to do in his position as the leader of the Catholic Church, no matter how much he was criticized both from within and outside the Church. He shouldered and embraced a very heavy cross and suffered a quiet type of crucifixion as a result of his exceptional fidelity and courageous writings and actions.

Benedict took strong, long overdue and very necessary actions against moral corruption within the clergy, the religious orders and within the Catholic aid agencies. He appointed many first-rate bishops and removed a large number of bishops who were a cause of scandal to the Church. He took actions on the liturgy and other issues that were not popular, but which he saw as essential to preserving Catholicism and Christian culture in what he knew would be very difficult years to come in the near future.

We should be extremely grateful for the pontificate of Pope Benedict XVI and the exceptional support that he gave to the life and family movements. The full story on all that he did has yet to be told.
 ::snipping3::



Title: Re: Pope Benedict RESIGNING
Post by: grace-land on February 10, 2014, 01:34:07 AM
http://blogs.reuters.com/faithworld/2014/02/09/a-year-after-resignation-ex-pope-benedict-has-no-regrets-ganswein/

A year after resignation, ex-Pope Benedict has no regrets – Gänswein
February 9, 2014

A year after his shock resignation, Pope Emeritus Benedict has no regrets and believes history will vindicate his tumultuous and much-criticised papacy, the man closest to him told Reuters in a rare interview.

Archbishop Georg Gänswein, who now works for the former pope as well as being the head of Pope Francis’s household, shed new light on how Benedict spends his days, his health, his feelings about his momentous decision and the relationship between the two popes.

“Pope Benedict is at peace with himself and I think he is even at peace with the Lord,” said Gänswein, whose twin roles bring him into contact with the current and former pope daily.

Benedict announced his decision to resign, the first pope to do so in 600 years, on February 11, 2013, citing the physical and psychological strains of the papacy. He stepped down on February 28 and Francis was elected on March 13 as the first non-European pope in 1,300 years.
 ::snipping3::
-------------------
http://blogs.reuters.com/faithworld/2014/02/09/reuters-qa-with-archbishop-georg-ganswein-in-english-and-italian/
Reuters Q&A with Archbishop Georg Gänswein in English and Italian
February 9, 2014


Title: Re: Pope Benedict RESIGNING
Post by: grace-land on February 10, 2014, 09:39:27 PM
http://www.catholicnewsagency.com/news/cardinal-recalls-shock-of-benedict-xvis-resignation/

Cardinal recalls shock of Benedict XVI's resignation

Vatican City, Feb 10, 2014 / 05:06 am (CNA/EWTN News).- One year later, Cardinal James Stafford reflects on the meeting where Benedict XVI announced that he was stepping down as Bishop of Rome, noting that it was an “unexpected” moment of “shock” for all.

“Total surprise, total shock,” was the experience of all those present when they heard the Pope’s words that day, Cardinal Stafford explained in a Feb. 7 interview with CNA.

On the occasion of the one-year anniversary of the Feb. 11, 2013 announcement of Benedict XVI’s resignation, Cardinal Stafford, President Emeritus of the Pontifical Council of the Laity and Archbishop Emeritus of Denver, CO, spoke of his experience at being in the room when the pontiff revealed his decision.

Calling to mind the meeting where the announcement was made, the cardinal revealed that “it took place at a consistory of the cardinals,” which was “basically” a gathering of “the cardinals of Rome.”
 ::snipping3::
“We all sat down, including the Holy Father, Pope Benedict, and a rather extensive paper was brought up to him by his secretary to read.”

Originally, “I didn’t put any meaning upon all of that,” the cardinal reflected, stating that “I just thought we would be having an adjunct, that was somewhat unusual, but not very unusual,” but “within ten seconds” he knew something was happening because the Pope was “speaking in Latin, not in Italian.”

 “I was alerted to the fact that it was about something very special by the fact that he was speaking to us not in the usual language of Italian, but in Latin,” Cardinal Stafford recalled, noting that the pontiff had not spoken to them in Latin “in this setting” since “his election,” so he thought “’I better listen in on this.’”

 “So I listened very attentively, and very soon the words came out that he was resigning,” the cardinal observed, “and he continued about the reasons, but that came out within the first thirty seconds of his address.”

Then they “concluded the celebration of the Liturgy of Hours,” he explained, and Benedict XVI “left immediately, and we were left there stunned.”

“A cardinal who was sitting next to me said, ‘Did he resign?’ I said, ‘yes, that’s what he did. He resigned.’ And we just all stood at our places.”

Eventually “we came together in smaller groups, and began sharing some of our reaction to it,” the cardinal said, adding that “It was totally unexpected, and totally, historically, unexpected.”
 ::snipping3::


Title: Re: Pope Benedict RESIGNING
Post by: Sister on February 11, 2014, 08:12:45 AM
The Pope has spoken with God and had peace, first . . . most important.
May God continue to bless him!


Title: Re: Pope Benedict RESIGNING
Post by: grace-land on February 11, 2014, 03:37:09 PM
The Pope has spoken with God and had peace, first . . . most important.
May God continue to bless him!

And a good and faithful servant of God!


Title: Re: Pope Benedict RESIGNING
Post by: grace-land on February 23, 2014, 02:09:05 AM
Photos at the link

http://www.washingtonpost.com/world/europe/pope-emeritus-benedict-xvi-joins-pope-francis-at-a-historic-cardinal-ceremony/2014/02/22/80406b6e-9bfd-11e3-ad71-e03637a299c0_story.html

Pope Emeritus Benedict XVI joins Pope Francis at a historic cardinal ceremony
Published: February 22
 
VATICAN CITY — In an unprecedented blending of papacies past, present and future, Pope Emeritus Benedict XVI joined Pope Francis at a ceremony Saturday to formally install new cardinals who will elect the next pontiff.

It was the first time Benedict and Francis have appeared together at a public liturgical ceremony since Benedict retired a year ago, becoming the first pope to step down in more than 600 years. It may signal that after a year of staying largely “hidden to the world,” as Benedict described his future when resigning, the retired pontiff may slowly and occasionally be reintegrated back into the public life of the church.

Benedict entered St. Peter’s Basilica discreetly from a side entrance surrounded by a small entourage and was greeted with applause and tears from the stunned people in the pews. He smiled, waved and took his seat in the front row, off to the side, alongside the red-draped cardinals.

“We are grateful for your presence here among us,” the newly minted Cardinal Pietro Parolin, the Vatican secretary of state, told Benedict in his introductory remarks at the start of the service.

In a sign that Benedict still commands the honor and respect owed a pope, each of the 19 new cardinals — after receiving his red hat from Francis at the altar — went directly to Benedict’s seat to greet him before exchanging a sign of peace with the other cardinals.
 ::snipping3::


Title: Re: Pope Benedict RESIGNING
Post by: Sister on February 24, 2014, 09:46:18 AM
The Pope has spoken with God and had peace, first . . . most important.
May God continue to bless him!

And a good and faithful servant of God!


indeed!


Title: Re: Pope Benedict RESIGNING
Post by: grace-land on February 26, 2014, 01:04:06 PM
http://www.religionnews.com/2014/02/26/pope-benedict-rejects-rumors-resigned-simply-absurd/

Benedict rejects rumors on why he resigned as “simply absurd”
Feb 26, 2014

VATICAN CITY (RNS) As the anniversary of his surprising resignation approaches, Pope Benedict XVI has rejected as “simply absurd” the speculation that he was forced to step down, and he said he still wears the distinctive white papal cassock for “purely practical reasons.”

“At the moment of my resignation there were no other clothes available,” Benedict wrote in a brief letter to an Italian journalist that was published on Wednesday (Feb. 26).

The emeritus pope also said that he kept the name Benedict, rather than reverting to his birth name of Joseph Ratzinger, because it was a simple solution.

Rumors that this signaled he remained something of a “shadow pope” to his successor, Pope Francis, were “another case of completely unfounded speculations being made.”

The same goes for reports that he was pushed to resign because of scandals in the Vatican.

“There isn’t the slightest doubt about the validity of my resignation from the Petrine ministry,” Benedict wrote to Andrea Tornielli, a veteran Vatican reporter with La Stampa newspaper.

“The only condition for the validity is the complete freedom of my decision. Speculations about the invalidity of my resignation are simply absurd.”
 ::snipping3::
----------------------
http://en.radiovaticana.va/news/2014/02/26/pope-emeritus_benedict_xvi:_theories_surrounding_resignation_are/en1-776540
2014-02-26 08:01:01
Pope-emeritus Benedict XVI: Theories surrounding resignation are 'absurd'

http://www.ncregister.com/blog/edward-pentin/benedict-xvi-questions-about-validity-of-resignation-are-absurd
Benedict XVI: Questions About Validity of Resignation are "Absurd"
Wednesday, February 26, 2014 5:33 AM


Title: Re: Pope Benedict RESIGNING
Post by: grace-land on February 28, 2014, 08:48:08 PM
Videos at the link

http://whispersintheloggia.blogspot.com/

Friday, February 28, 2014
One Year Ago Today....

(http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-hsnlYS7Mtd4/UxAtMbD9aMI/AAAAAAAAQlM/aOW2_bMsRl8/s400/b16part8.jpg)

...what had long been unthinkable came to pass – the Pope departed the Vatican, and left Peter's Chair behind:
 ::snipping3::



Title: Re: Pope Benedict RESIGNING
Post by: grace-land on March 07, 2014, 09:14:32 PM
http://www.catholicnewsagency.com/news/in-rare-interview-benedict-xvi-recalls-life-john-paul-ii/

In rare interview, Benedict XVI recalls life of John Paul II

Vatican City, Mar 7, 2014 / 05:02 pm (CNA/EWTN News).- In lengthy excerpts of an interview published in an Italian newspaper, Benedict XVI speaks of his time collaborating with John Paul II, highlighting the deceased Pope's sanctity and commitment to the truth.

“In the years of collaboration with him it became ever more clear to me that John Paul II was a saint,” the retired pontiff told Polish journalist Wlodzimierz Redzioch in a written interview, selections of which appeared in Italian newspaper Corriere della Sera on March 7.

Published as part of the book “Beside JPII: Friends and Collaborators Speak,” released by Italian press agency “Italian Edizioni Ares,” Benedict's written interview was originally requested by Redzioch in Nov. of 2013, which he agreed to and completed in Jan. of this year.
 ::snipping3::


Title: Re: Pope Benedict RESIGNING
Post by: grace-land on March 07, 2014, 09:19:50 PM
Extracts of the interview

http://www.zenit.org/en/articles/benedict-xvi-pays-tribute-to-blessed-john-paul-ii-in-new-interview

Benedict XVI Pays Tribute to Blessed John Paul II in New Interview
Vatican City,  March 07, 2014

We publish below extracts of a recent interview Pope Emeritus Benedict XVI gave to ZENIT’s Wlodzimierz Redzioch in which he pays tribute to soon-to-be-canonized Pope John Paul II.

The complete interview appears in a book just published in Italian entitled “Beside John Paul II - Friends and Collaborators Speak” (Ares 2014). The interview, one of 21 with the late Pontiff’s close friends and associates, runs to 12 pages in total. It is entitled: “It Became Ever More Clear to Me that John Paul II Was a Saint”.

***

In this first extract, Benedict XVI is asked to recount his first meeting with Cardinal Wojtyla:

BENEDICT XVI: The first meeting I am aware of, between me and Cardinal Wojtyla, happened only in the Conclave in which John Paul I was elected.

During the Council, we both collaborated on the Constitution on the Church in the contemporary world, and yet in different sessions we did not meet. In September of 1978, on the occasion of the visit of Polish Bishops in Germany, I was in Ecuador as personal representative of John Paul I. The Church of Monaco and Freising is linked to the Ecuadorian Church in a twinning realized by Archbishop Echevarria Ruiz (Guayaquil) and Cardinal Dopner. And thus, to my great displeasure, I lost the occasion to know the Archbishop of Krakow personally. Naturally, I had heard talk of his work as philosopher and pastor, and I had wanted to meet him for a long time.

For his part, Wojtyla had read my Introduction to Christianity, which he also quoted in the Spiritual Exercises he preached for Paul VI in Lent of 1976. Therefore, it was as if interiorly we both hoped to meet.

I had from the beginning a great veneration and a cordial liking for the Archbishop of Krakow. In the pre-Conclave of 1978, he analyzed for us, in an amazing way, the nature of Marxism. However, above all I perceived immediately and strongly the human charm that he emanated and, from the way he prayed, I realized how profoundly united he was to God.
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Title: Re: Pope Benedict RESIGNING
Post by: grace-land on April 29, 2014, 01:22:52 AM
http://www.ticotimes.net/2014/04/27/pope-francis-declares-john-paul-ii-john-xxiii-saints (http://www.ticotimes.net/2014/04/27/pope-francis-declares-john-paul-ii-john-xxiii-saints)

Pope Francis declares John Paul II, John XXIII saints
Jean-Louis de la Vaissiere and Laure Brumont | AFP |1 day ago

(http://www.ticotimes.net/wp-content/uploads/2014/04/140427PopeCanonization02-700x466.jpg)
This handout picture by the Vatican press office shows Pope Francis, right, meeting with Pope emeritus Benedict XVI during the canonization mass of Popes John XXIII and John Paul II at St. Peter’s square at the Vatican, on April 27, 2014.
AFP/OSSERVATORE ROMANO/HO


VATICAN CITY – Pope Francis on Sunday proclaimed John Paul II and John XXIII the Catholic Church’s newest saints at a festive ceremony joined by hundreds of thousands of pilgrims for two pontiffs who helped shape 20th-century history.

Among the attendees was Floribeth Mora, the Costa Rican woman whose apparent healing from a brain aneurysm has been declared the second supposed miracle in John Paul II’s name required for sainthood status.

“We declare and define as saints the blessed John XXIII and John Paul II,” the Catholic leader said in a Latin prayer, as pilgrims and foreign dignitaries massed in St. Peter’s Square applauded and chanted: “Amen!”

In his homily, Francis praised them as “men of courage” who worked “in renewing and updating the Church.”

“They were priests, bishops and popes of the 20th century. They lived through the tragic events of that century but they were not overwhelmed by them.

“For them, God was more powerful,” he said.

Pope emeritus Benedict XVI, who last year became the first pontiff to resign since the Middle Ages, made a rare public appearance in his white papal cassock.

Francis embraced him warmly at the ceremony and co-celebrated the mass with the 87-year-old Benedict and hundreds of bishops and cardinals — the first time that two living popes have ever said mass together.
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Title: Re: Pope Benedict RESIGNING
Post by: grace-land on April 29, 2014, 01:59:51 AM
http://www.catholicnewsagency.com/news/benedict-xvi-i-knew-during-his-life-that-john-paul-ii-was-a-saint/ (http://www.catholicnewsagency.com/news/benedict-xvi-i-knew-during-his-life-that-john-paul-ii-was-a-saint/)

Benedict XVI: I knew during his life that John Paul II was a saint

(http://www.catholicnewsagency.com/images/size340/Pope_Benedict_XVI_Photo_Credit_Mazur_CNA_Vatican_Catholic_News_5_5_11.jpg)
Benedict XVI. Photo Credit: Mazur

Rome, Italy, Apr 23, 2014 / 12:47 pm (CNA).- In a rare interview, Pope Emeritus Benedict XVI recalled his close friendship with Blessed John Paul II, saying that the pontiff’s sanctity and deep spirituality were apparent during his life.

“In the years in which I collaborated with him, it was ever clearer to me that John Paul II was a saint,” said Benedict XVI during an interview with Polish journalist Wlodzimierz Redzioch, which was published April 20 in the Spanish newspaper “La Razon.”

 “Naturally, his intense relationship with God, being immersed in communion with the Lord, needs to be taken into account above all,” the former Pope said of his predecessor.

 Benedict XVI, who served under Pope John Paul II as prefect of the Congregation for the Doctrine of the Faith, said the Polish pontiff courageously “embraced his task in a truly difficult time.”

 “John Paul II did not ask for applause nor did he look around worried about how his decisions were going to be received. He acted based on his faith and his convictions, and he was also willing to take hits,” Benedict recounted. “The courage for truth is, in my view, a primary measure of holiness. Only by looking first at his relationship with God is it possible to also understand his unfailing pastoral determination.”
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Title: Re: Pope Benedict RESIGNING
Post by: grace-land on April 29, 2014, 02:09:35 AM
Video of the canonization ceremony and mass at the link

http://www.thetablet.co.uk/news/726/0/the-day-of-four-popes-john-xxiii-and-john-paul-ii-raised-to-the-altars-in-historic-first (http://www.thetablet.co.uk/news/726/0/the-day-of-four-popes-john-xxiii-and-john-paul-ii-raised-to-the-altars-in-historic-first)

The day of four popes: John XXIII and John Paul II raised to the altars in historic first
27 April 2014 09:29

(http://www.thetablet.co.uk/UserFiles/images/otherheadlines/250x250/canonisations3sq.jpg)

Pope Francis praised popes John XXIII and John Paul II as “the pope of openness to the Spirit” and “the pope of the family” following their canonisation at a ceremony witnessed by 800,000 pilgrims crammed into a rainy St Peter’s Square and the roads leading up to it.

Popes John XXIII and John Paul II were declared saints this morning during an unprecedented canonisation ceremony at the Vatican attended by pilgrims from around the world.

There was applause and shouts of joy in St Peter’s Square as Pope Francis said: “We declare and define Blessed John XXIII and John Paul II be Saints and we enroll them among the Saints” during the simple, short ceremony.

Watch the ceremony

Pope Emeritus Benedict XVI, 87, made a rare public appearance to concelebrate alongside Pope Francis, who embraced his predecessor before the ceremony began.

The Pope Emeritus wore white vestments, and in an historic first, concelebrated the Mass with Pope Francis, though he did not join him at the altar.

Today has been dubbed “the day of four popes”.
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Title: Re: Pope Benedict RESIGNING
Post by: grace-land on June 17, 2014, 01:08:48 PM
http://www.catholicnewsagency.com/news/archbishop-gaenswein-thread-of-diplomacy-links-benedict-francis-86617/ (http://www.catholicnewsagency.com/news/archbishop-gaenswein-thread-of-diplomacy-links-benedict-francis-86617/)

Archbishop Gaenswein: thread of diplomacy links Benedict, Francis

(http://www.catholicnewsagency.com/images/size500/Archbishop_Georg_Gnswein_personal_secretary_of_Pope_Emeritus_Benedict_XVI_speaks_to_the_press_on_June_5_2014_Credit_Daniel_Ibez_CNA_CNA_6_5_14.jpg)
Archbishop Georg Gaenswein, prefect of the Papal Household, speaks to the press June 5, 2014. Credit: Daniel Ibanez/CNA.

Rome, Italy, Jun 17, 2014 / 02:03 am (CNA/EWTN News).- In a recent interview with CNA, the prefect of the Papal Household and personal secretary to Benedict XVI recounted how the current and emeritus Bishops of Rome are connected by their diplomacy during apostolic journeys.

Archbishop Georg Gaenswein was at the June 5 conference “The Pope's journeys: between diplomacy and communication,” held at the Pontifical University of the Holy Cross, and noted what is common to Benedict XVI and Pope Francis, even though their diplomacy has been interpreted according to their differing characters.

The conference was an occasion for presenting “Sull'aereo di Papa Benedetto,” a recent work by Italian journalist Angela Ambrogetti, which gathers Benedict's press conferences on the papal plane during his pontificate.

“When the Pope makes an apostolic journey, it is clear that diplomacy plays a key role, with regards to both words and gestures,” Archbishop Gaenswein said, calling diplomacy a “thread” in Benedict XVI's pontificate.

He stressed the importance of the five so-called ‘political speeches’ Benedict XVI held during his apostolic journeys, in front of the representatives of the world of culture and politics. He added that through these speeches, one can better understand the Bavarian's diplomatic sense – even if the sense of his words was rarely understood.

“In the beginning, it was always surprising to me how different were the newspaper reports about the same speeches,” Archbishop Gaenswein underscored.

While Benedict XVI was subjected “to several prejudices directed against him as the former prefect of the Congregation for the Doctrine of the Faith,” he noted, Pope Francis “gained the trust of journalists” from the time he first spoke on the loggia of St. Peter's.

“I myself must take into account that Benedict has been considered ‘the Pope of the word,’ while Pope Francis is considered ‘the Pope of gestures,’” Archbishop Gaenswein added.
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Title: Re: Pope Benedict RESIGNING
Post by: grace-land on July 18, 2014, 08:54:13 PM
http://www.firstthings.com/web-exclusives/2014/07/summorum-pontificum-seven-years-on (http://www.firstthings.com/web-exclusives/2014/07/summorum-pontificum-seven-years-on)

Summorum Pontificum, Seven Years On
7 . 9 . 14

Seven years ago this week, Pope Benedict XVI promulgated the apostolic letter Summorum Pontificum, liberalizing use of the 1962 missal and affirming the continuity between it and the ordinary form of Mass. He stressed the seamlessness of the Roman rite in its two forms, the old and the new. In principle, the traditional Latin Mass does not divide the Church, he insisted, in response to the spectacle of Catholics dividing themselves over it, each side accusing the other of being divisive.
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Title: Re: Pope Benedict RESIGNING
Post by: grace-land on August 28, 2014, 05:58:08 PM
http://www.catholicnewsagency.com/news/a-refreshed-benedict-xvi-captivates-students-with-homily-25653/

A refreshed Benedict XVI captivates students with homily

Vatican City, Aug 26, 2014 / 12:31 pm (CNA/EWTN News).- Participants in the annual Ratzinger “schulerkreis” study group were overjoyed at seeing the retired pontiff in good health, noting that they were deeply moved by his homily on the triumph of God's love.

“The homily was very moving. It was the Gospel of the day about Cesarea of Philippi where Jesus asks the apostles, 'Who do you say I am?'” Father Vincent Twomey recalled to CNA Aug. 25.
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“What struck us all is that despite being older each year,” Benedict XVI “looks much better, fresher. He's very clear in his mind,” he noted, observing how the former pontiff stood for nearly an hour and a half during the mass even though a chair was provided for him.

“He was in good form. There was a good spirit about him.”

Echoing Fr. Twomey’s sentiments is Secretary of the Pontifical Council for Culture Mons. Barthélemy Adoukonou, who also participated in the study circle.

“It was extraordinary. As always, it amazed us that in spite of age, and without a prepared text, the Pope (emeritus) gave a homily at a great level, with an extraordinary clarity of mind for his age.”

Composed of about 50 people who studied for their doctorates under Ratzinger, the schuelerkreis usually takes place with the 25 to 30 who are able to make it to any given year's meeting.

The circle has enlarged in recent years, establishing a “youth branch” composed of academics who had not studied with Ratzinger, yet who are studying and developing upon his theological work.

The topic of the meeting varies each year; last year was the question of God amid secularism, and the year prior to that, ecumenism was the subject chosen.


Title: Re: Pope Benedict RESIGNING
Post by: grace-land on September 03, 2014, 11:32:41 PM
http://www.ncregister.com/daily-news/regensburg-revisited-faith-reason-and-the-islamic-state/

Regensburg Revisited: Faith, Reason and the Islamic State
by FATHER RAYMOND J. DE SOUZA 08/28/2014

Is Islam inherently violent? Does it justify violence against infidels? Does it encourage the faith to be spread by the sword?

The establishment of an “Islamic State” in northern Iraq this summer has brought such questions to the forefront in the face of the lethal brutality the Islamic State has unleashed against religious minorities, including the expulsion and killing of Christians.

There are political and military aspects to those questions, but they are most fundamentally theological. Does God desire violence to spread his revelation?

Theology addresses reality at its deepest level, and, therefore, theological ideas matter a great deal in the “real world,” even if it takes some time for them to become evident to the mass public. The horrors of the Islamic State — including public beheadings and crucifixions — have made manifest what can happen when it is accepted that lethal violence is justified to spread the faith.

Theological problems require theological responses, in the first place to recognize that a theological problem exists and then to provide an adequate answer.

Six years ago, in his famous lecture at the University of Regensburg, Pope Benedict XVI provided just such a response. The events of this summer make it more urgent to return to the argument of Regensburg.

Regensburg remains the most famous papal lecture ever given because of the lethal riots that followed in the Islamic world afterward. Some regard it as an early gaffe in Benedict’s pontificate, before he learned that being pope was different than being a provocative professor. Yet sometimes a pastor has to provoke, especially when deadly threats are lurking about.
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The fruit of all that was evident this summer, as the highest scholarly authorities in Islam, based in Cairo, have explicitly stated that the “Islamic State” is not justified by Islam and is not an authentic representation of it.

Six years ago, Christians inclined to be friendly toward Muslims severely criticized Benedict’s frank and respectful address. Then, as now, it was best understood and welcomed in the Islamic world itself, suffering the plague of jihadi violence.

Regensburg was not so much the work of a professor or even a pope. It was the work of a prophet.


Title: Re: Pope Benedict RESIGNING
Post by: grace-land on October 17, 2014, 09:36:47 PM
http://www.zenit.org/en/articles/benedict-xvi-to-attend-paul-vi-s-beatification

Benedict XVI to Attend Paul VI's Beatification
Vatican City,  October 17, 2014

Benedict XVI will attend the beatification of Paul VI in St. Peter's Square this Sunday, according to the director of the Vatican press office, Jesuit Father Federico Lombardi.

Pope Paul VI, who was Pope from 1963-1978, made Joseph Ratzinger a cardinal in 1977.

Another two cardinals created by Paul VI will attend the beatification: Paulo Evaristo Arns, archbishop emeritus of Sao Paulo, Brazil, and William Wakefield Baum, major penitentiary emeritus.

A press conference was held this morning in the Vatican press office to speak about Paul VI and his relevance to the contemporary Church.
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Title: Re: Pope Benedict RESIGNING
Post by: grace-land on October 19, 2014, 09:09:05 PM
Video at the link

http://www.romereports.com/pg158769-pope-emeritus-benedict-xvi-arrives-at-the-beatification-of-pope-paul-vi-en

Pope Emeritus Benedict XVI arrives at the Beatification of Pope Paul VI
2014-10-19


Title: Re: Pope Benedict RESIGNING
Post by: grace-land on October 19, 2014, 09:17:49 PM
Pope Emeritus Benedict XVI at the Beatification mass for Pope Paul VI

http://whispersintheloggia.blogspot.com/

Sunday, October 19, 2014
"Thank You, Blessed Paul VI! Thank You For Your Humble, Prophetic Witness!"

(http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-pUL2yg84ysg/VEOsQHc-gZI/AAAAAAAARJM/8PnGCuY6HOk/s1600/bp6twg4.jpg)

(http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-M06B6rAoyaE/VEONtM0RN1I/AAAAAAAARIU/FJvdLIUf8uI/s1600/b16f1p6b5.jpg)


Title: Re: Pope Benedict RESIGNING
Post by: grace-land on October 23, 2014, 08:50:33 PM
http://www.catholicregister.org/columns/item/19038-never-too-late-to-listen-to-pope-benedict-xvi

Never too late to listen to Pope Benedict XVI
October 23, 2014

One of the world’s wisest voices was not heard during the synod fortnight in Rome. His time to speak publicly is definitively past, but it behooves the Church to listen now to what he said then.
 
Pope Emeritus Benedict XVI appeared at the concluding Mass of the Synod to witness the beatification of a predecessor, Pope Paul VI. It was Blessed Paul VI who called Joseph Ratzinger from his professorial chair and seated him upon the cathedra of Munich in May 1977, creating him a cardinal one month later. It was one of the most consequential decisions he would make.

Blessed Paul VI’s great task was to complete the work of the Second Vatican Council and to begin its implementation. The same Council was the great event that made the young Ratzinger into a figure that would play a central role in Catholic life for five decades. As pope, Benedict would call for a Year of Faith to commemorate the Council’s 50th anniversary and then, dramatically, abdicate during it. Three days after he announced his departure, Benedict addressed the clergy of Rome for their annual encounter at the beginning of Lent. The Holy Father, more lucid extemporaneously than most can manage with extensive preparation, delivered “a few thoughts on the Second Vatican Council, as I saw it.”

“There was the Council of the Fathers — the real Council — but there was also the Council of the media,” said Benedict in his valedictory to his priests. “It was almost a Council apart, and the world perceived the Council through the latter, through the media. Thus, the Council that reached the people with immediate effect was that of the media, not that of the Fathers. And while the Council of the Fathers was conducted within the faith — it was a Council of faith seeking intellectus, seeking to understand itself and seeking to understand the signs of God at that time, seeking to respond to the challenge of God at that time and to find in the word of God a word for today and tomorrow … the Council of the journalists, naturally, was not conducted within the faith, but within the categories of today’s media, namely apart from faith, with a different hermeneutic. It was a political hermeneutic: for the media, the Council was a political struggle, a power struggle between different trends in the Church. It was obvious that the media would take the side of those who seemed to them more closely allied with their world.”
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Title: Re: Pope Benedict RESIGNING
Post by: grace-land on October 23, 2014, 08:55:04 PM
http://ncronline.org/news/vatican/retired-pope-benedict-xvi-interreligious-dialogue-no-substitute-mission

Retired Pope Benedict XVI: Interreligious dialogue is no substitute for mission
by Francis X. Rocca
Catholic News Service |  Oct. 23, 2014

Vatican City --
Retired Pope Benedict XVI said dialogue with other religions is no substitute for spreading the Gospel to non-Christian cultures and warned against relativistic ideas of religious truth as "lethal to faith." He also said the true motivation for missionary work is not to increase the church's size but to share the joy of knowing Christ.
 
The retired pope's words appeared in written remarks to faculty members and students at Rome's Pontifical Urbanian University, which belongs to the Congregation for the Evangelization of Peoples. Archbishop Georg Ganswein, prefect of the papal household and personal secretary to retired Pope Benedict, read the 1,800-word message aloud Tuesday at a ceremony dedicating the university's renovated main lecture hall to the retired pope.

The speech is one of a handful of public statements, including an interview and a published letter to a journalist, that Pope Benedict has made since he retired in February 2013.

"The risen Lord instructed his apostles, and through them his disciples in all ages, to take his word to the ends of the earth and to make disciples of all people," retired Pope Benedict wrote. " 'But does that still apply?' many inside and outside the church ask themselves today. 'Is mission still something for today? Would it not be more appropriate to meet in dialogue among religions and serve together the cause of world peace?' The counter-question is: 'Can dialogue substitute for mission?'
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Title: Re: Pope Benedict RESIGNING
Post by: grace-land on October 23, 2014, 09:00:18 PM
http://www.catholicworldreport.com/Blog/3466/pope_emeritus_benedict_xvi_dialogue_cannot_substitute_for_mission.aspx

Pope emeritus Benedict XVI: Dialogue cannot substitute for mission
October 23, 2014 05:01 EST

(http://www.catholicworldreport.com/Content/Site140/Blog/3466benedictxvi_00000002758.jpg)
Retired Pope Benedict XVI arrives for the beatification Mass of Blessed Paul VI celebrated by Pope Francis in St. Peter's Square at the Vatican Oct. 19. To the right is Archbishop Georg Ganswein, prefect of the papal household and the personal secretary to Benedict. (CNS photo/Paul Haring)

Francis X. Rocca of CNS has a report for CNS on a speech by Benedict XVI, delivered on October 21st to faculty and students of Pontifical Urbanian University in Rome; the address was read by Archbishop Georg Ganswein, who is prefect of the papal household and the personal secretary to Benedict. Rocca reports some of the address, which doesn't appear to be available online in its entirety:
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Title: Re: Pope Benedict RESIGNING
Post by: grace-land on October 27, 2014, 09:31:50 PM
http://www.catholicnews.com/data/stories/cns/1404420.htm

Oct-27-2014
Pope Francis says Pope Benedict was a 'great pope'

(http://www.catholicnews.com/images/benexvi.jpg)
Retired Pope Benedict XVI exchanges the sign of peace with cardinals during the beatification Mass of Blessed Paul VI celebrated by Pope Francis in St. Peter's Square at the Vatican Oct. 19. (CNS/Paul Haring)

VATICAN CITY (CNS) -- Retired Pope Benedict XVI is a perfect example of how intellectual knowledge and scientific curiosity do not lead a person further from God, but can strengthen their love for God and for his human creatures, Pope Francis said.

"Benedict XVI was a great pope," he said: "Great for the power and penetration of his intellect, great for his considerable contribution to theology, great for his love for the church and for human beings, great for his virtues and his religiosity."

Pope Francis praised his predecessor Oct. 27 at a meeting of the Pontifical Academy of Sciences. The academicians invited Pope Francis to unveil a bronze bust of Pope Benedict at the academy's headquarters in the Vatican Gardens.

The pope said he was pleased that the statue's face and particularly its eyes captured the spirit, intelligence and love of Pope Benedict.

"This spirit, far from crumbling with the passing of time, will appear greater and more powerful from generation to generation," the pope predicted.
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Title: Re: Pope Benedict RESIGNING
Post by: grace-land on October 30, 2014, 08:28:18 PM
http://www.news.va/en/news/pope-emeritus-benedict-xvi-writes-personal-ordinar

Pope Emeritus Benedict XVI writes Personal Ordinariate of Our Lady of Walsingham
2014-10-30 Vatican Radio

(Vatican Radio) Pope Emeritus Benedict XVI has sent a message to the Personal Ordinariate of Our Lady of Walsingham, which was established for former Anglicans in England in 2011.  The message was on the fifth anniversary of Pope Benedict’s apostolic constitution Anglicanorum Coetibus, which was released on November 4th 2009.

The Pope Emeritus was responding to a letter he received from Nicolas Ollivant, the chairman of the Friends of the Ordinariate, a charity set up to support the Ordinariate's work.

Mr. Ollivant’s letter also included information on the Ordinariate's central church in London, Our Lady of the Assumption and St Gregory, on Warwick Street.  It is the site of the former chapel to the Bavarian embassy to England, which greatly pleased the Pope Emeritus.

The full text of the letter (translated into English on the Ordinariate’s website) is below
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Title: Re: Pope Benedict RESIGNING
Post by: grace-land on November 10, 2014, 09:44:27 PM
http://www.zenit.org/en/articles/benedict-xvi-to-leaders-of-caritas-in-veritate-international-keep-faith-and-charity-together

Benedict XVI to Leaders of Caritas in Veritate International: Keep Faith and Charity Together
Rome,  November 10, 2014

Several leaders of Caritas in Veritate International were received by Pope Emeritus Benedict XVI at his residence in the Vatican last Thursday. They were in Rome hosting a five-day forum to discuss and understand better ways to implement Pope Francis’ "Theology of Encounter" around the world.

Founded in 2010, Caritas in Veritate is a “confederation of Catholic institutions, dedicated to recruit, mobilize and engage volunteers as a response to Pope Benedict’s call for Charity in Truth.”

Henry Capello, founder and president of Caritas in Veritate, spoke of the meeting, saying the Pontiff Emeritus “was remarkably gracious” upon receiving them.

“He received us personally into his living room and generously gave us 25 minutes of his time,” Capello said. “His health is excellent – the Pope Emeritus is as sharp as ever. He knew clearly what we were all about. He wished to encourage us in our endeavor to keep together charity and faith. ‘Faith without charity is meaningless,’ he said. ‘Charity without faith is meaningless. The two must be kept together.’”
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Title: Re: Pope Benedict RESIGNING
Post by: grace-land on November 12, 2014, 10:22:12 PM
Picture at the link

http://www.catholicnewsagency.com/news/priest-swaps-clerical-hats-with-a-sharp-healthy-benedict-xvi-48840/

Priest swaps clerical hats with a 'sharp, healthy' Benedict XVI

Rome, Italy, Nov 12, 2014 / 11:49 am (CNA/EWTN News).- A priest who met and exchanged zucchettos with retired pontiff Benedict XVI last week marveled at the former pope's joy, mental clarity and good health.

“We were so, so enthused by the joy in Benedict, (by his) his serenity. He's a man at peace, at peace in the will of God for him today, which is to pray for the Church,” Monsignor Anthony Figueiredo told CNA Nov. 7.

Benedict XVI is like a wise grandfather, he said, pointing out how as “a tender man who is full of humility,” the retired pope is a living example of what Pope Francis means when he often speaks of the importance of tenderness.

“He is in fantastic health, fantastic health, and his mind is as sharp today and perhaps even sharper than when he was the great theologian and the great Pope that we knew him as.”

Msgr. Figueiredo serves as spiritual director at Rome's Pontifical North American College. He was one of five leaders of the new “Caritas in Veritate International” confederation, for which he also serves as Vice President for Relations with Bishops, who met Benedict XVI last Thursday.

Inspired by the retired pontiff's encyclical letters “Deus Caritas est” – God is Love – and “Caritas in Veritate” – Charity in Truth – the organization is made up of several Catholic communities, international groups and charitable institutions who are involved in missions in 80 countries throughout the world.
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Title: Re: Pope Benedict RESIGNING
Post by: grace-land on November 25, 2014, 02:44:06 PM
http://www.catholicnewsagency.com/news/scholars-no-benedict-xvi-doesnt-support-kasper-in-synod-debates-35882/

Scholars: No, Benedict XVI doesn't support Kasper in Synod debates

Vatican City, Nov 25, 2014 / 02:49 am (CNA/EWTN News).- A new volume of Benedict XVI's collected works includes an updated version of a 1972 essay in which he had suggested that the divorced and remarried could receive Communion – but the Pope had long since abandoned that position, scholars noted.

“In his book The Gospel of the Family, Cardinal Walter Kasper cites a 1972 essay by Joseph Ratzinger … it is unfortunate that Cardinal Kasper failed to mention that Ratzinger retracted the proposal or 'Vorschlag' outlined in his 1972 essay,” Dr. Nicholas Healy, an assistant professor at the John Paul II Institute for Studies on Marriage and Family in Washington, D.C., told CNA Nov. 24.
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Title: Re: Pope Benedict RESIGNING
Post by: grace-land on December 03, 2014, 06:24:59 PM
http://chiesa.espresso.repubblica.it/articolo/1350933?eng=y

In the Synod on the Family Even the Pope Emeritus Is Speaking Out
He has rewritten the conclusion of one of his articles from 1972 that Cardinal Kasper had cited in his own support. Here is the complete text of his “retractatio,” in which he reiterates and explains the ban on communion for the divorced and remarried

by Sandro Magister

(http://data.kataweb.it/kpmimages/kpm3/misc/chiesa/2014/12/02/jpg_1350934.jpg)

ROME, December 3, 2014 – Joseph Ratzinger's position on communion for the divorced and remarried is well known. He has formulated it a number of times, as cardinal prefect of the congregation for the doctrine of the faith and then as pope.

But now he is returning to the argument with a new text, just released in Germany in the collection of his Opera Omnia.

This text is reproduced in its entirely further below. But its origin demands an explanation.
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Title: Re: Pope Benedict RESIGNING
Post by: grace-land on December 10, 2014, 11:17:20 PM
http://www.ncregister.com/daily-news/pope-emeritus-just-call-me-father-benedict/

Pope Emeritus: Just Call Me ‘Father Benedict’
12/09/2014

(http://www.ncregister.com/images/sized/images/uploads/Benedict_XVI_Mazur_CNA-255x257.jpg)
Benedict XVI
– Mazur/catholicnews.org.uk


VATICAN CITY — Rather than being called by his papal name “Benedict XVI,” the retired pope revealed that, since his retirement, he has wanted to return to his original priestly title and be called simply “Father Benedict.”

Benedict made his comments in a private conversation with journalist Jorg Bremer, who published bits of them in a Dec. 7 article for the German newspaper Frankfurter Allgemeine Zeitung.

According to the journalist, Benedict explained that, when he initially stepped down, he wanted to be called “Father Benedict” rather than pope emeritus or Benedict XVI, but “I was too weak at that point to enforce it.”
 ::snipping3::


Title: Re: Pope Benedict RESIGNING
Post by: grace-land on December 10, 2014, 11:20:40 PM
http://www.catholicculture.org/news/headlines/index.cfm?storyid=23475

CDF prefect: Pope Benedict XVI is the ‘Mozart of theology’
Catholic World News - December 10, 2014

Cardinal Gerhard Ludwig Müller, the prefect for the Congregation of the Doctrine of the Faith, paid tribute to Pope Benedict XVI in awarding the Ratzinger Prize in theology to Anne-Marie Pelletier, a French scholar, and Msgr. Waldemar Chrostowski, a Polish biblical exegete.

“The Congregation for the Doctrine of the Faith is particularly tied to Joseph Ratzinger, not only due to the fact that he led the dicastery for over 23 years, but also because this Congregation has the task of promoting and protecting the doctrine of the faith, and the abundantly rich theology of the Pope Emeritus was of great importance in this respect, causing the Christian doctrine to shine in all its intensity and beauty,” said Cardinal Müller.

Pope Benedict “has been defined as the ‘Mozart of theology,’” Cardinal Müller added, as he expressed “the deep gratitude of the Church to Benedict XVI for his tireless commitment as a scholar and master of the science of God.”
 ::snipping3::


Title: Re: Pope Benedict RESIGNING
Post by: grace-land on December 31, 2014, 02:52:16 PM
http://www.catholicworldreport.com/Blog/3602/georg_ratzinger_travels_to_rome_to_visit_his_brother.aspx

Georg Ratzinger travels to Rome to visit his brother
December 30, 2014 01:43 EST

Regensburg, December 29, 2014 (kath.net/KNA). Monsignor Georg Ratzinger, former music director of the Regensburger Domspatzen, the Boys’ Choir of the Cathedral in Regensburg, flew on Monday from Munich to Rome to visit his brother, Pope Emeritus Benedict XVI. He will stay there until January 16, the prelate told Bavarian Radio on Monday. He looks forward to his weeks at the Vatican, not only because of his younger brother’s company, but also because of the good food. The cleric himself admits that he still has a good appetite. Moreover he likes the mild climate in Italy in the winter months. On January 15 Georg Ratzinger will turn 91.

The Monsignor commented on the present routine of his younger brother Joseph (aged 87), the Pope Emeritus: “He just feels freer now, after all. In the morning he opens his mail and writes letters, in the afternoon he often has audiences with bishops and God knows what else. But it is all more relaxed.” In Rome Georg Ratzinger will be met at the airport, otherwise “I couldn’t manage it.” On account of his age he cannot stand for any length of time waiting for his luggage.
 ::snipping3::

 


Title: Re: Pope Benedict RESIGNING
Post by: grace-land on January 23, 2015, 10:42:35 PM
Two-page article

http://www.aleteia.org/en/world/article/king-abdullah-who-was-first-saudi-ruler-to-visit-a-pope-5859474287886336

January 23, 2015
King Abdullah, First Saudi Ruler to Visit a Pope, Dead at 90

(http://www.aleteia.org/image/en/article/king-abdullah-who-was-first-saudi-ruler-to-visit-a-pope-5859474287886336/pope-benedict-xvi-welcomes-king-abdullah-to-the-vatican/topic)
AP

King Abdullah of Saudi Arabia, who died Friday, was the first Saudi monarch to visit a Pope. Abdullah visited Pope Benedict XVI at the Vatican in November 2007.

Abdullah bin Abdulaziz Al Saud, a powerful U.S. ally who fought against al-Qaida and sought to modernize the ultraconservative Muslim kingdom, including by nudging open greater opportunities for women, was 90.
 ::snipping3::


Title: Re: Pope Benedict RESIGNING
Post by: grace-land on February 06, 2015, 09:14:39 PM
http://abcnews.go.com/Health/wireStory/pope-benedict-francis-unblocked-romero-sainthood-case-28714672

Pope Benedict, Not Francis, Unblocked Romero Sainthood Case
VATICAN CITY — Feb 4, 2015, 9:26 AM ET

The monsignor who spearheaded the saint-making process for El Salvador's slain Archbishop Oscar Romero said Wednesday it was Pope Benedict XVI — and not Pope Francis — who removed the final hurdle in the tortured, 35-year process.

Archbishop Vincenzo Paglia told reporters Benedict "gave the green light." Speaking a day after Francis declared that Romero died as a martyr for the faith, Paglia said Romero's beatification would likely be within a few months in San Salvador.

Paglia says Benedict told him on Dec. 20, 2012, the case had passed from the Vatican's doctrine office, where it had been held up for years over concerns about Romero's orthodoxy, to the saint-making office. From there it proceeded quickly, taking a mere two years for theologians, and then a committee of cardinals and bishops, to agree unanimously that Romero died as a martyr out of hatred for the faith.
 ::snipping3::


Title: Re: Pope Benedict RESIGNING
Post by: grace-land on February 11, 2015, 10:33:37 PM
February 11, 2015 Tweet

Thomas Rosica retweeted 
Zenit English @zenitenglish 
  ·  12h 12 hours ago   
'Vergelts Gott, Heiliger Vater!' -Remembering Pope Benedict's Resignation Two Years Later http://www.zenit.org/en/articles/vergelts-gott-heiliger-vater …
(https://pbs.twimg.com/media/B9ksARbIgAMJs0d.jpg)

Vergelts Gott, Heiliger Vater!
Remembering Pope Benedict's Resignation Two Years Later
Rome,  February 11, 2015

Fr. Thomas Rosica, CSB, is the CEO of Salt and Light Catholic Media Foundation and the English Language Assistant to the Holy See Press Office.

The momentous occasion of Pope Benedict XVI’s resignation two years ago on February 11, 2013, stands as an important moment in the life of the Catholic Church and in the life of the world. To his brother Cardinals gathered in consistory that February morning last year, he startled them, the Church and the entire world with these moving words:

“After having repeatedly examined my conscience before God, I have come to the certainty that my strengths, due to an advanced age, are no longer suited to an adequate exercise of the Petrine ministry. I am well aware that this ministry, due to its essential spiritual nature, must be carried out not with words and deeds, but no less with prayer and suffering.

However, in today’s world, subject to so many rapid changes and shaken by questions of deep relevance for the life of faith, in order to govern the bark of Saint Peter and proclaim the Gospel, both strength of mind and body are necessary, strength which in the last few months, has deteriorated in me to the extent that I have had to recognize my incapacity to adequately fulfill the ministry entrusted to me. For this reason, and well aware of the seriousness of this act, with full freedom I declare that I renounce the ministry of Bishop of Rome, Successor of Saint Peter, entrusted to me by the Cardinals on 19 April 2005, in such a way, that as from 28 February 2013, at 20:00 hours, the See of Rome, the See of Saint Peter, will be vacant and a Conclave to elect the new Supreme Pontiff will have to be convoked by those whose competence it is.

Dear Brothers, I thank you most sincerely for all the love and work with which you have supported me in my ministry and I ask pardon for all my defects. And now, let us entrust the Holy Church to the care of Our Supreme Pastor, Our Lord Jesus Christ, and implore his holy Mother Mary, so that she may assist the Cardinal Fathers with her maternal solicitude, in electing a new Supreme Pontiff. With regard to myself, I wish to also devotedly serve the Holy Church of God in the future through a life dedicated to prayer.”
 ::snipping3::



Title: Re: Pope Benedict RESIGNING
Post by: grace-land on February 11, 2015, 10:46:10 PM
Videos at the link

http://www.catholicherald.co.uk/commentandblogs/2015/02/11/a-monsignor-sobbed-then-silence-fell-an-eyewitness-account-of-benedict-xvis-resignation/#.VNs9QVJ8d0s.twitter

A monsignor sobbed, then silence fell: an eyewitness account of Pope Benedict XVI’s resignation

This is what it was like to witness the moment Benedict XVI became the first pope to resign in 600 years

February 11 is a holiday in the Vatican. It is the day when the Holy See celebrates the settlement in 1929 of the so-called “Roman Question”, the resolution of the 59-year stand-off between the Kingdom of Italy and the Holy See after the fall of Rome in 1870 to the Kingdom’s troops and the effective end of the ancient Papal States in central Italy.

By chance it was also the day Pope Benedict XVI chose to resign.

The date had been scheduled for a small consistory, comprising midday prayer and the announcement by Cardinal Angelo Amato of some beati due to be promoted to saints. There had also been a little gentle buzz for some time in the Roman Curia about the Holy Father announcing one or two important changes then, perhaps near the top of the administration, but these kinds of rumours circle like the seagulls around the Vatican’s Belvedere: they come round frequently, make a bit of noise and go away again. In other words, as in most places, nothing happens until it happens.
 ::snipping3::


Title: Re: Pope Benedict RESIGNING
Post by: grace-land on February 11, 2015, 10:52:34 PM
http://www.catholicnewsagency.com/news/two-years-into-retirement-the-legacy-of-father-benedict-lives-on-44605/

Two years into retirement, the legacy of Father Benedict endures

(http://www.catholicnewsagency.com/images/size680/Pope_Benedict_XVI_Credit_Mazur_catholicnewsorguk_CNA_2_11_15.jpg)
Pope Benedict XVI. Credit: Mazur/catholicnews.org.uk.

Vatican City, Feb 11, 2015 / 12:00 pm (CNA/EWTN News).- Two years to the day since Pope Benedict XVI told the world of his historic decision to step down from the papal office, those impacted by his pontificate say that his legacy is still burning bright.

“Pope Benedict's legacy is really very massive,” said Archbishop Arthur Roche, secretary for the congregation for Divine Worship and the Discipline of the Sacraments.

“His teaching, his balance, his ability to get to the bottom of so many things with such clarity” are among the marks that remain from Benedict’s pontificate, the archbishop told CNA.

While Feb. 11 is normally set aside as a holiday in the Vatican for the feast of Our Lady of Lourdes, the day took on huge added significance in 2013, when Benedict used the opportunity to announce his retirement at a relatively routine consistory – most of the prelates in the room had expected to hear little more than the dates for some upcoming canonizations.

Three weeks later, on Feb. 28, Benedict XVI would greet the crowds from the balcony of the papal palace at Castel Gandolfo for the last time as the reigning pontiff. Shortly thereafter, the resignation took effect, and the See of Peter was vacant until the election of Pope Francis on Mar. 13, 2013.

Since his retirement, Benedict’s days have been filled with prayer and study, largely out of the public view. He now goes by the simple title, “Fr. Benedict.” However, some see the legacy of the Pope Emeritus as continuing to resonate in complementarity to that of his successor, Pope Francis.
 ::snipping3::


Title: Re: Pope Benedict RESIGNING
Post by: grace-land on February 12, 2015, 09:53:02 PM
http://americamagazine.org/issue/pope-benedict-no-regrets-about-retirement

Pope Benedict: No Regrets About Retirement
Feb 12 2015 - 1:21pm

Retired Pope Benedict XVI has never doubted or regretted his decision to resign, knowing it was the right thing to do for the good of the church, said Archbishop Georg Ganswein, prefect of the papal household and personal secretary to the retired pope.

"The church needs a strong helmsman," and Pope Benedict was keenly aware of his own waning strength while faced with such a demanding ministry, the archbishop said in an interview published Feb. 12 in the Italian daily Corriere della Sera.
 ::snipping3::
Archbishop Ganswein said Pope Benedict, who will turn 88 in April, is still following the prayerful, quiet life he wanted to dedicate himself to upon his retirement.

Like his namesake, St. Benedict -- the father of Western monasticism -- the retired pope "has chosen a monastic life. He goes out (in public) only when Pope Francis asks him to; as for the rest, he does not accept other invitations," said the archbishop, who lives with retired Pope Benedict in a renovated monastery and has been his personal secretary since 2003.

Archbishop Ganswein told the newspaper that in addition to the pope's usual routine of prayer, reading, keeping up with correspondence, receiving visitors, watching the evening news and walking in the Vatican Gardens, he has been playing the piano much more often: "Mozart especially, but also other compositions that come to mind at the moment; he plays from memory."

The only health issues, the archbishop said, are "every now and then his legs give him some problems, that's all." The pope, who has had a pacemaker for several years and uses a cane, still has an incredibly sharp mind, the archbishop added.

When asked what Popes Benedict and Francis might have in common, Archbishop Ganswein said that while their ways of expression are very different, the one thing they share is "the substance, the content, the deposit of faith to be proclaimed, promoted and defended."


Title: Re: Pope Benedict RESIGNING
Post by: grace-land on February 13, 2015, 07:47:46 PM
http://www.zenit.org/en/articles/benedict-xvi-will-be-present-at-tomorrow-s-consistory

Benedict XVI Will Be Present at Tomorrow's Consistory
Rome,  February 13, 2015

Pope Emeritus Benedict XVI has accepted Pope Francis' invitation to attend tomorrow's Ordinary Public Consistory in St. Peter's Basilica.

Although Holy See spokesman, Fr. Federico Lombardi, did not confirm the Pontiff Emeritus' presence at the consistory during today's briefing, Vatican Radio confirmed shortly after that Benedict XVI will attend the celebration that will created 20 new cardinals for the Roman Catholic Church.
 ::snipping3::


Title: Re: Pope Benedict RESIGNING
Post by: grace-land on February 14, 2015, 10:35:55 PM
http://www.gulf-times.com/uk-europe/183/details/427095/pope-francis-appoints-20-new-cardinals-at-special-ceremony

Pope Francis appoints 20 new cardinals at special ceremony
14  February 2015

(http://www.gulf-times.com/NewsImages//2015/2/14/f4dd0fc7-3b76-47f3-833a-615687cca531.jpg)
Pope Francis greets Emeritus Pope Benedict XVI during a mass to create 20 new cardinals during a ceremony in St Peter’s Basilica at the Vatican.

http://www.wsj.com/articles/pope-francis-elevates-20-new-cardinals-1423922173
Pope Francis Elevates 20 New Cardinals
Updated Feb. 14, 2015 11:17 a.m. ET

 ::snipping3::
Meanwhile, Pope Emeritus Benedict XVI made a rare appearance Saturday, attending the ceremony to elevate the new cardinals. The 87-year-old pope has lived in near-seclusion since stepping down just two years ago.

In an interview this week with Italian newspaper Corriere della Sera, Archbishop Georg Ganswein, personal secretary to the retired pope, denied reports that Pope Emeritus Benedict is failing, saying that “his legs give him some trouble occasionally” but that “his mind is still formidable.”

Archbishop Ganswein said the pope emeritus—a prominent theologian—spends his days praying, writing, receiving occasional visitors and playing Mozart on his piano. Pope Francis has said the he sometimes turns to his predecessor for advice.

The German bishop said Pope Emeritus Benedict has no regrets about his shock decision to step down. “The church needs a strong helmsman,” he said.


Title: Re: Pope Benedict RESIGNING
Post by: grace-land on February 14, 2015, 10:39:36 PM
Photos

http://www.cruxnow.com/church/2015/02/14/photos-pope-francis-inducts-20-new-cardinals-into-the-church/

Photos: Pope Francis inducts 20 new cardinals into the Church
February 14, 2015


Title: Re: Pope Benedict RESIGNING
Post by: grace-land on February 23, 2015, 08:30:37 PM
http://vaticaninsider.lastampa.it/en/the-vatican/detail/articolo/ratinger-ecumenismo-ecumenism-39326/

02/23/2015
Ecumenism according to Ratzinger: Pluriform unity

In a speech delivered in 1993 the then Prefect of the Congregation for the Doctrine of the Faith talked about the path toward unity between the Churches and about possible “intermediate solutions” before full communion could be achieved: “There is a duty to let oneself be purified and enriched by the other”

ANDREA TORNIELLI
vatican city
 
The “ultimate aim” of the ecumenical journey, “is obviously the unity of the churches in the one Church”. “This does not mean uniformity” but “unity in pluriformity”. The “Orthodox Churches should not change much in their internal structure, almost nothing in fact, if they unite themselves with Rome”. The then cardinal Joseph Ratzinger pronounced these words on 29 January 1993 during a public conversation with Waldesian professor Paolo Ricca held at the evangelical cultural centre.

Pope Francis took these considerations further during his visit to the Ecumenical Patriarchate of Constantinople last November, when he said that in its efforts to achieve full unity with Orthodox Christians, the Catholic Church “does not intend to impose any conditions except that of the shared profession of faith”.

Speaking about ecumenism during his meeting with the Waldesian community, Francis wished to distinguish between “two phases”: the final aim and the “models” for the in-between waiting period before unity is achieved. The future Pope saw the former as “the real force and the main motivating factor behind our ecumenism”. He explained that “the unity of churches within the Church” does not imply “uniformity”, but “unity in pluriformity”. “It seems to me,” the then cardinal added, “that the ancient Church can be taken as something of a model. The ancient Church was united on three fundamental elements: Holy Scripture, regula fidei, the sacramental structure of the Church. But, for the rest, it was a Church of very many forms, as we all know. There were the churches of Semitic regions or language, the Egyptian Coptic Church, and here were the Greek Churches of the Byzantine empire, the other Greek Churches, the Latin Churches featuring great diversities between the Church in Ireland, for  example, and the Church of Rome.”
 ::snipping3::


Title: Re: Pope Benedict RESIGNING
Post by: grace-land on February 28, 2015, 09:39:49 PM
Videos at the link

http://whispersintheloggia.blogspot.com/

Saturday, February 28, 2015
Two Years Later

(http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-lp_tUnI78ww/VPIAn2G1zTI/AAAAAAAARjs/mNnn2g2DmNk/s1600/b16part8.jpg)

With the Pope and Curia on the road and off the grid for this week's Lenten retreat, the beat's been unusually quiet... but don't worry – it won't be for much longer.

In any case, beyond fresh stories, the coming weeks are likely to bring an uptick of wider focus on the Vatican as Francis marks his second anniversary on Peter's chair. Eventful as the last two years have been, though, it remains the case that the most surreal and extraordinary moment of all hasn't been because of Papa Bergoglio, but the one that made him – the moment two years ago today when the Pope left office alive for the first time since before Europeans settled the Americas and the "new" St Peter's was built.

Indeed, as head-spinners go, nothing in the current context – arguably nothing we've seen, ever – can compete with those 17 days in February 2013 between Benedict XVI's announcement of his resignation on the 11th and his departure from the Vatican at dusk on the 28th. Even if the modern information cycle holds its choicest rewards for the bright, shiny thing of the day – however fleeting it is – this moment deserved and still deserves more enduring attention than it got... and not just because, at some point in time, the reigning pontiff has quietly signaled his determination to follow suit and institutionalize resignation from the papacy as a matter of course.

Ergo, let's go back to the scenes of that unbelievable night: first, B16's emotional, masterfully choreographed farewell from the Apostolic Palace and the chopper out...
 ::snipping3::


Title: Re: Pope Benedict RESIGNING
Post by: grace-land on March 18, 2015, 05:07:40 PM
http://www.zenit.org/en/articles/archbishop-georg-gaenswein-interviewed-by-italian-publication

Archbishop Georg Gaenswein Interviewed By Italian Publication
Vatican City,  March 18, 2015

Archbishop Georg Gaenswein has given an extensive interview to the Italian publication Oggi.

In the interview which the prefect of the Papal Household and private secretary to Pope Benedict XVI granted yesterday, he discusses his experiences under both pontificates, and speaks specifically on Pope Francis’ pontificate, the Pope Emeritus’ health and the Vatileaks scandal.
 ::snipping3::
Pope Benedict

Archbishop Gaenswein also reflected on Pope Emeritus Benedict XVI, for whom he has been secretary since 2003. He remembered crying when Pope Emeritus left the Apostolic Palace in Castel Gandolfo, after resigning.

"I was moved,” he said. “After eight years there as a secretary, I was living a historic moment. Instead, Pope Benedict was serene." That evening of February 28, he reflected, he had withheld his emotions, until they became tears.

The German archbishop also spoke of how the Pope Emeritus passes his days.

“He's fine, for his age,” he reflected, noting he makes afternoon stroll daily in the Vatican Gardens.

"I usually go with him. We recite the Rosary together. We walk [30 minutes]. Pope Benedict, who has always had a brisk pace, now, on the advice of the doctor, uses a walker, and a cane in the house.  The days always start with Mass, and I concelebrate with him every morning. During the day, he reads, studies, answers many letters and, not infrequently, in the evening, he plays the piano.”

"With the three volumes on Jesus of Nazareth, he ended his theological work,” he noted.

“He [Pope Benedict] says he has no more strength to write." he noted. Yet, he said during Sunday Mass, the Pope Emeritus always gives the homily, without written notes. "He has a good memory."

Gaenswein on His Role

The prefect also reflected on his unprecedented role, the first prelate to be a collaborator to two Popes.

"I started this journey with great faith, energy, but also a bit of fear. Now, after two years, it is easier. At first, I was more insecure," he said, noting this was partially due to some having greater expectations from the retired Pope to stay more involved.

“The attitude of welcoming Pope Benedict XVI to Francis was, and is, exemplary. Between the two, there really is a very friendly and respectful relationship," he said.
 ::snipping3::


Title: Re: Pope Benedict RESIGNING
Post by: grace-land on April 02, 2015, 06:24:24 PM
http://www.zenit.org/en/articles/cardinal-george-pell-benedict-xvi-laid-groundwork-for-financial-transparency

Cardinal George Pell: Benedict XVI Laid Groundwork For Financial Transparency
Vatican City,  April 01, 2015

For many months there has been talk about the steps the Vatican is taking to achieve transparency in financial and economic matters. In this connection, Cardinal George Pell, Prefect of the Prefecture of the Economic Affairs of the Holy See, explained that “it must not be thought that Pope Benedict XVI did nothing  and we are now doing everything.”

“We are doing something on the foundations proposed during Benedict’s time. And it seems to me increasingly that Benedict understood in some way – on some aspects, not all --, that the situation was serious,” said the Australian Cardinal during the presentation last Tuesday of the book “Co-responsibility and Transparency in the Administration of the Goods of the Church,” by Francesco Lozupone. “I wish to stress that Pope Benedict tried seriously to improve the situation,” added the Cardinal.
 ::snipping3::


Title: Re: Pope Benedict RESIGNING
Post by: grace-land on April 13, 2015, 09:18:05 PM
Pope Emeritus Benedict XVI will celebrate his 88th birthday on April 16!  Happy Birthday!  :smt113  ::MonkeyHeart::

April 13, 2015 Tweets
https://twitter.com/roccopalmo

Rocco Palmo @roccopalmo 
  ·  9h 9 hours ago   
Alles Gute zum Geburtstag, Fluffy – ahead of his 88th on Thursday, B16 photoed in wknd meet w/ Munich seminarians:
(https://pbs.twimg.com/media/CCfAUvfWIAEdhVZ.jpg:large)




Title: Re: Pope Benedict RESIGNING
Post by: seahorse on April 14, 2015, 07:47:01 AM
http://www.telegraph.co.uk/news/worldnews/europe/italy/11533635/Pope-Francis-effect-leads-to-exorcism-boom.html

Pope Francis effect' leads to exorcism boom
“Pope Francis effect” credited with rising demand for exorcisms around the world


Nick Squires

By Nick Squires, Rome

7:57PM BST 13 Apr 2015

 ::MonkeyShocked::


Title: Re: Pope Benedict RESIGNING
Post by: grace-land on April 14, 2015, 08:27:04 PM
http://www.telegraph.co.uk/news/worldnews/europe/italy/11533635/Pope-Francis-effect-leads-to-exorcism-boom.html

Pope Francis effect' leads to exorcism boom
“Pope Francis effect” credited with rising demand for exorcisms around the world


Nick Squires

By Nick Squires, Rome

7:57PM BST 13 Apr 2015

 ::MonkeyShocked::


 ::rhino::


Title: Re: Pope Benedict RESIGNING
Post by: grace-land on April 15, 2015, 01:58:13 PM
http://en.radiovaticana.va/news/2015/04/15/abp_ganswein_benedict_xvi_prayerful_at_88/1136972

Abp Ganswein: Benedict XVI prayerful at 88
15/04/2015 13:33

(Vatican Radio) The Prefect of the Papal Household and private secretary to Pope-emeritus Benedict XVI, Archbishop Georg Ganswein, has given an in-depth interview to Italian television, in which he discusses issues ranging from the the current Pope’s concern for persecuted Christian faithful, to the Church’s discernment of miracles, and the former Pope’s ongoing dialogue of prayer, in preparation for his meeting with Our Lord.

Archbishop Ganswein told Mediaset’s La strada dei miracoli programme, “It is clear that a man who soon will turn 88 should be thinking about this.” He continued, “His is a Christian art – because preparing for death means preparing to meet the LORD, and this is a decisive meeting.”
 ::snipping3::


Title: Re: Pope Benedict RESIGNING
Post by: grace-land on April 16, 2015, 02:02:43 PM
http://en.radiovaticana.va/news/2015/04/16/pope_emeritus_benedict_xvi_celebrates_his_88th_birthday/1137382

Pope Emeritus Benedict XVI celebrates his 88th birthday
16/04/2015 17:44

(http://media02.radiovaticana.va/photo/2015/04/16/AP2842221_Articolo.jpg)
Pope Benedict toasts for his 88th birthday - AP

(Vatican Radio) The Pope Emeritus, Benedict XVI marked his 88th birthday on Thursday (April 16th) with a Bavarian-style celebration. He received birthday greetings from a group of Gebirgsschutzen (mountain protection units) from his native Bavaria, dressed in traditional costumes. Among those present to celebrate his birthday were his older brother Monsignor Georg Ratzinger and the Prefect of the Pontifical Household, Archbishop George Ganswein.

Since resigning as Pope in February 2013,  Benedict XVI has lived a life of prayer and reclusion at the Mater Ecclesiae situated inside the Vatican Gardens.  Speaking in an interview with Vatican Radio, Monsignor Alfred Xuereb, the former second secretary of Benedict XVI, said affection for the Pope Emeritus has increased over the past two years. He paid tribute to Benedict XVI’s great humility and humanity as well as his deep intellect and his ability to transmit profound thoughts.  ::snipping3::



Title: Re: Pope Benedict RESIGNING
Post by: grace-land on April 16, 2015, 02:07:58 PM
http://www.catholicherald.co.uk/news/2015/04/16/pope-francis-wishes-benedict-xvi-a-happy-88th-birthday/

Pope Francis wishes Benedict XVI a happy 88th birthday
posted Thursday, 16 Apr 2015

Pontiff offers morning Mass for the Pope Emeritus

Pope Francis has marked the 88th birthday of Benedict XVI by offering morning Mass for the Pope Emeritus.

According to Vatican Radio, the Pontiff said: “I would like to remind you that today is the birthday of Pope Benedict XVI. I offered Mass for him and also invite you to pray for him, that the Lord will sustain him and give him a lot of joy and happiness.”
 ::snipping3::
In an interview with the Italian newspaper La Repubblica, Archbishop Georg Gänswein said the Pope Emeritus told him: “If I still had the strength to write, I would not have given up the papacy.”


Title: Re: Pope Benedict RESIGNING
Post by: grace-land on April 16, 2015, 02:28:34 PM
Photos at the link

http://www.heraldextra.com/lifestyles/faith-and-values/pope-benedict-xvi-celebrates-th-birthday-with-party-pint/article_f6f044cd-358e-5753-88df-424a40a260e1.html

Retired Pope Benedict XVI celebrates 88th birthday with pint
2 hours ago


Title: Re: Pope Benedict RESIGNING
Post by: grace-land on April 22, 2015, 10:24:48 PM
http://www.zenit.org/en/articles/joseph-ratzinger-benedict-xvi-library-to-be-opened-in-rome

Joseph Ratzinger-Benedict XVI Library To Be Opened in Rome
Rome,  April 21, 2015 

The Joseph Ratzinger-Benedict XVI Roman Library, dedicated entirely to the life and thought of Ratzinger as scholar and Pope, was officially announced. The study center is located within the Library of the Teutonic College and of the Roman Institute of the Gorres Society.

The announcement was made yesterday by Monsignor Stefan Heid, Director of the Roman Institute, during the presentation of the volume Benedict XVI, Servant of God and of Men, published in Italian by the Libreria Editrice Vaticana and in German by Schnell & Steiner Publishers, for the 10th anniversary of Joseph Ratzinger’s election as Pontiff on April 19, 2005.

Attending the event, which took place in the afternoon of April 20 in the church of the Teutonic Cemetery in the Vatican, were, among others, the brother of the Pope Emeritus, Monsignor Georg Ratzinger, Cardinals Bertone, Farina, Koch and Muller, and Archbishops Farhat, Ganswein, Marra and Pozzo.

The Library, named after the Pope Emeritus, will open next September and will have, to begin with, some one thousand volumes in different languages and will be characterized as an open place to all those interested in the publications of and on Joseph Ratzinger, to know his life and to reflect on his Theology. Benedict XVI himself donated many of the volumes. Others, instead, were given by the Vatican Foundation that bears his name and that supported the initiative.
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Title: Re: Pope Benedict RESIGNING
Post by: grace-land on May 12, 2015, 08:49:42 PM
http://www.catholicnewsagency.com/news/in-rare-new-letter-benedict-xvi-seeks-shepherds-for-the-whole-world-59940/

In rare new letter, Benedict XVI seeks shepherds for the whole world

Vatican City, May 12, 2015 / 06:03 am (CNA/EWTN News).- Speaking from retirement, Benedict XVI has underscored the need for the Church to extend its pastoral care to non-believers and to share “the questions of the times” in its continuing efforts to announce the gospel to the world.

Benedict XVI’s new reflections came in an April 21 letter to Cardinal Tarcisio Bertone, who served as his Secretary of State from 2006 to 2013. A summary of the letter was published in the May 10 edition of the Vatican newspaper L’Osservatore Romano.

The Pope emeritus wrote that “the service of a shepherd cannot be only limited only to the Church,” even though “in the first place, we are entrusted with the care of the faithful and of those who are directly seeking faith.”
 
The Church, he maintained, “is part of the world, and therefore it can properly play its service only if it takes care of the world in its entirety.”
 
According to Benedict XVI, the “Word of God concerns the totality of reality, and this actuality places on the Church a general responsibility.” This is the reason why the Church “must be involved in the efforts that humanity and society put into action” for a path toward justice and why the Church must “find a way of reasoning” that would also include non-believers.
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Title: Re: Pope Benedict RESIGNING
Post by: grace-land on June 16, 2015, 11:00:28 PM
http://www.catholicnewsagency.com/news/benedict-xvis-summer-plans-rare-public-events-and-a-visit-to-castel-gandolfo-24010/

Benedict XVI's summer plans – rare public events and a visit to Castel Gandolfo

Vatican City, Jun 16, 2015 / 11:07 am (CNA/EWTN News).- Benedict XVI’s summer is set to be the most active since he stepped down from the pontificate in 2013, with plans for participation in at least two public events and a two-week stay at the papal summer residence at Castel Gandolfo.

“Pope Francis invited Benedict XVI to spend some time in Castel Gandolfo in the month of July and Benedict accepted,” Fr. Lombardi told journalists on June 15. Benedict XVI is expected to be there for two weeks, although no official dates have been disclosed.

Castel Gandolfo, which lies about 15 miles southeast of Rome, has not been officially used as a papal residence since Benedict XVI – who now goes by “Fr. Benedict” – spent just over two months there following his Feb. 28, 2013 resignation from the See of Peter. He currently lives in the Mater Ecclesiae monastery in the Vatican Gardens.
 ::snipping3::
While in Castel Gandolfo on July 3, Benedict XVI is also set to receive an honorary doctorate from the Krakow, Poland-based Pontifical University of John Paul II and its music academy.

The honor specifically recognizes Benedict’s “great respect for musical tradition of the Church” and “special concern for the noble beauty of sacred music and its proper place in the celebration of the sacred liturgical rites of the Church,” according to a press release from the university.

Back at the Vatican at the end of August, Benedict XVI will also take part in the inauguration of the “Joseph Ratzinger - Benedict XVI Roman Library” at the Pontifical Teutonic College on August 30.
 ::snipping3::


Title: Re: Pope Benedict RESIGNING
Post by: grace-land on June 17, 2015, 10:56:24 PM
http://www.catholicnewsagency.com/news/a-meeting-to-remember-seminarians-chat-with-benedict-xvi-10569/

A meeting to remember: seminarians chat with Benedict XVI

(http://www.catholicnewsagency.com/ajax/photo.php?id=5581f23741d29&w=680)
Pope emeritus Benedict XVI meets with seminarians from the diocese of Faensa-Modigliana, Italy on June 16, 2015 at the seminary of Faensa-Modigliana. Credit: Diocese of Faenza-Modigliana

By Andrea Gagliarducci

Vatican City, Jun 17, 2015 / 07:03 pm (CNA/EWTN News).- Several enthusiastic seminarians met with Benedict XVI at the Vatican Gardens on Tuesday – even though it is their exam time, they did not want to miss the chance to meet the Pope emeritus.
 
“It lasted two minutes, but I will always remember it,” one seminarian told CNA about the meeting. He added: “the Pope emeritus was so kind, and asked me some personal information about my life.”

The seminarian has an ontology exam on June 18.

The seminarians come from the Diocese of Faenza-Modigliana, headed by Bishop Mario Toso. The diocese has 12 seminarians.

“The seminarians really wished to meet with the Pope emeritus, whom they really esteem and love,” Bishop Toso told CNA.
 
The bishop had forwarded the seminarians’ request to meet Benedict XVI, who jumped at the chance for a short meeting.
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Title: Re: Pope Benedict RESIGNING
Post by: grace-land on June 19, 2015, 04:48:14 PM
http://www.catholicnewsagency.com/news/summorum-pontificum-conference-celebrates-benedict-xvis-liturgical-legacy-62040/

Summorum Pontificum Conference celebrates Benedict XVI's liturgical legacy

Rome, Italy, Jun 19, 2015 / 07:07 am (CNA/EWTN News).- The fourth annual Summorum Pontificum Conference was held last Saturday in Rome to promote the understanding and use of the extraordinary form of the Roman rite, and to discuss the liturgical heritage of Benedict XVI.

Benedict issued the motu proprio Summorum Pontificum in 2007, acknowledging clearly the right of all priests of the Roman rite to say Mass using the Roman Missal of 1962 – the form of the Mass used prior to the reforms which followed the Second Vatican Council.

The fourth annual conference to celebrate the document was held June 13 and centered on the theme, “A Treasure for the Whole Church.”

“In this moment of theological reflection we wanted to make the liturgical treasures of the Church known, eight years after the publication of Benedict XVI’s document,” explained Fr. Vincenzo Nuara, OP, in an interview with CNA June 13.

“In the past years, as this year, we have tried to deepen theological and liturgical topics which attain to the Latin Gregorian liturgy. We wanted to create a basis of study, of research, and of debate for young theologians, and to make known the treasure of this liturgy.”

The conference took place in Rome’s Pontifical University of St. Thomas Aquinas, commonly called the Angelicum.

To close the meeting, a solemn pontifical Mass was said the following day by Cardinal Velasio De Paolis in the Holy Sacrament chapel of St. Peter’s Basilica.
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Title: Re: Pope Benedict RESIGNING
Post by: grace-land on July 04, 2015, 11:57:43 PM
http://vaticaninsider.lastampa.it/en/the-vatican/detail/articolo/benedetto-xvi-benedict-xvi-benedicto-xvi-42166/

07/ 4/2015
Pope-emeritus Benedict XVI receives honorary doctorates

(http://vaticaninsider.lastampa.it/typo3temp/pics/8c454b6091.jpg)
(©Ansa)
Pope-emeritus Benedict XVI received Doctorates honoris causa on Saturday from the Pontifical John Paul II University of Krakow and the Krakow Academy of Music. The motivation for the honors issued by the University’s Academic Senate specifies five contributions Pope Benedict has made to knowledge and culture: his great respect for the musical tradition of the Church and remarkable sensitivity to the music of faith; the life-long and constant demonstration of a special concern for the noble beauty of sacred music and its proper place in the celebration of the sacred liturgical rites of the Church; his constant insistence on the didactic importance of the via pulchritudinis – the way of beauty – which can become a way of knowing and worshiping God for the modern man; his lifelong commitment to Truth, which strengthens the Christian faith in times of spiritual confusion caused by liberalism, postmodernism and relativism, and his tireless efforts to restore the spiritual dimension of Europe; his kind support for the work of transforming the schools of the Pontifical Academy of Theology into the Pontifical John Paul II University.

In remarks prepared for the occasion, and delivered on July 4th at Castel Gandolfo, Pope-emeritus Benedict XVI said, “In the Constitution on the Liturgy of the II Vatican Council,  it is very clearly written: ‘The treasure of sacred music is to be preserved and fostered with great care. (114)’ On the other hand, the text highlights the actuosa participatio of the faithful in the sacred action as a fundamental liturgical category. Those two things, which in the text of the Constitution remain together and at peace with each other, were in the implementation of the Council, often in a relationship of dramatic tension. Significant areas of the Liturgical Movement believed that, in the future, there would be room for the great choral works and even for orchestral Masses only in concert halls, not in the liturgy. [In the liturgy], there could be space only for the singing and common prayer of the faithful. On the other hand, there was shock at the cultural impoverishment of the Church that would necessarily result from this. How to reconcile the two? How to implement the Council in its entirety? These were the questions that were particularly striking to me and to many other believers, to simple people, no less than to persons in possession of a theological education.”
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Title: Re: Pope Benedict RESIGNING
Post by: grace-land on July 26, 2015, 05:47:15 PM
http://vaticaninsider.lastampa.it/en/the-vatican/detail/articolo/matini-martini-martini-benedetto-xvi-benedict-xvi-benedicto-xvi-42410/

07/18/2015
Martini: Benedict XVI’s resignation and the 2005 Conclave
(http://vaticaninsider.lastampa.it/typo3temp/pics/4332789cf7.jpg)
Benedict XVI with Cardinal Martini

The disclosures made by the Jesuit Biblicist, Fr. Silvano Fausti, Carlo Maria Martini’s confessor and spiritual guide, who passed away on 24 June, have turned the spotlight back onto the role played by the formed Archbishop of Milan in the 2005 Conclave that elected Benedict XVI Pope. In a video interview published on Italian news website Gli Stati Generali, Fausti talked about two moments. One was Ratzinger’s resignation and the last conversation with Martini on 2 June 2012 in Milan, on the occasion of the World Meeting of Families. The Jesuit cardinal, who was seriously ill with Parkinson’s (he died three months later), met Ratzinger in the archbishop’s residence in the early afternoon.
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http://rorate-caeli.blogspot.com/2015/07/the-original-story-when-jesuit-cardinal.html
The Original Story: When the Jesuit Cardinal told Pope Benedict XVI he had to Resign


Title: Re: Pope Benedict RESIGNING
Post by: grace-land on July 28, 2015, 06:27:22 PM
http://vaticaninsider.lastampa.it/en/the-vatican/detail/articolo/polisca-francesco-francisco-francis-42568/

07/28/2015
Polisca remains Ratzinger’s doctor but not Francis’

(http://vaticaninsider.lastampa.it/typo3temp/pics/4701db4d7b.jpg)
Polisca with Ratzinger (Photo by Il Sismografo)
Pope Francis will soon be in the care of a new personal doctor  and the Vatican City will have a new health services director. Patrizio Polisca is leaving his post as director of  Vatican Health Services and as such will no longer be Francis’ personal physician. He will, however continue his service as private physician to the Pope Emeritus Benedict XVI and will also hold onto other roles he holds in the Vatican, including his position in the Congregation for the Causes of Saints. He will also continue to reside in the Vatican. The director of the Holy See Press Office, Fr. Federico Lombardi clarified this in a statement to journalists who asked him about certain speculations about Polisca’s alleged “ousting” from the Vatican. Accoridng to the information at hand, the doctor was informed about the change-over at the end of May and was expected to leave his post at the end of July.

“Regarding the speculations in the Italian press this morning, I would like to clarify that Patrizio Polisca's five-year term of service as director of the Vatican Health Services has ended. A rotation (of directors) is to be considered normal, based on regulations for directorial lay personnel in the Holy See and Vatican City.” “Polisca,” Fr. Lombardi emphasised, “will continue his invaluable service, as Pope Emeritus Benedict XVI’s personal physician and will continue to reside in the Vatican.”
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Title: Re: Pope Benedict RESIGNING
Post by: grace-land on July 30, 2015, 10:23:19 PM
http://www.zenit.org/en/articles/benedict-xvi-celebrates-mass-with-elderly-priest-of-vatican-parish-of-st-anne-s

Benedict XVI Celebrates Mass With Elderly Priest of Vatican Parish of St. Anne’s
Rome,  July 30, 2015

Benedict XVI on Tuesday concelebrated Mass with a priest who is marking the 70th anniversary of his ordination.

The priest, Father Gioele Schiavella, was formerly the pastor at the papal parish of St. Anne, which is located within Vatican City.

Father Schiavella, known for his short and profound sermons, will be 93 in September. For his anniversary, he was invited to concelebrate Mass with Benedict XVI on Tuesday in the chapel of the Mater Ecclesia convent, where the Pope Emeritus leads his life of retirement and prayer inside the Vatican.

Together with them were the other priests who work in the parish of St. Anne: the present Italian Augustinian parish priest, Bruno Silvestrini, Filipino Stefano Canuto, and Latin American Jafet Ramon Ortega.

At the end of the Mass, the Pope Emeritus gave each one of them a Rosary, and to Father Schiavella his book, “Heralds of the Word and Servants of Joy,” as well as a basket of fruit for the Community. 

The parish has a long history and is close to one of the entrance gates of Vatican City, which enables the public to enter it without having to pass through the security gates of the Swiss Guards or the Vatican Gendarmerie
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Title: Re: Pope Benedict RESIGNING
Post by: grace-land on November 19, 2015, 09:27:54 PM
http://www.catholicnewsagency.com/news/latest-ratzinger-prizes-highlight-lebanese-and-brazilian-gifts-to-theology-34870/

Latest Ratzinger Prizes highlight Lebanese and Brazilian gifts to theology

Vatican City, Nov 18, 2015 / 06:03 am (CNA/EWTN News).- A Brazilian priest and a Lebanese scholar were awarded on Monday the 2015 Ratzinger Prizes, in recognition of their work in theology.

“With these two figures, the list of theologians who have deservedly received the Ratzinger Prizes is further enriched not only quantitatively, but also qualitatively,” Archbishop Luis Francisco Ladaria Ferrer, S.J., secretary of the Congregation for the Doctrine of the Faith, said Nov. 16.

The two honorees were announced during a press conference at the Holy See Press Office.
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Title: Re: Pope Benedict RESIGNING
Post by: grace-land on November 19, 2015, 09:34:36 PM
http://en.radiovaticana.va/news/2015/11/19/teutonic_college_hosts_ratzinger_library_inauguration/1187906

Teutonic College hosts Ratzinger Library Inauguration
19/11/2015 08:15
(http://media02.radiovaticana.va/photo/2010/11/26/ANSA135310_Thumbnail.jpg)
(Vatican Radio) The official inauguration of the Library Biblioteca Romana Joseph Ratzinger – Benedetto XVI – dedicated to the life and the thought of the Pope Emeritus as a scholar and a Pontiff - was held on Wednesday evening at the Pontifical Teutonic College.

Before becoming Pope, Cardinal Joseph Ratzinger celebrated Mass every week at the College, which serves the German-speaking community and is located on the Vatican grounds.

The library is a collection of more than 1000 books in 36 languages provided by Pope emeritus Benedict XVI, by the Libreria Editrice Vaticana, by the Vatican Foundation, and by the Papst Benedikt XVI Institute of Regensburg.

Cardinal Gianfranco Ravasi, the President of the Pontifical Council of Culture, began the evening with an academic lecture at the nearby Augustinian Patristic Institute, entitled “From the Bible to the Library – Benedict XVI and the Culture of the Word of God."
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Title: Re: Pope Benedict RESIGNING
Post by: grace-land on December 08, 2015, 08:38:56 PM
http://www.catholicnewsagency.com/news/its-time-to-rediscover-gods-mercy-pope-says-at-jubilee-launch-77943/

It’s time to rediscover God’s mercy, Pope says at Jubilee launch
(http://www.catholicnewsagency.com/images/size680/Pope_Francis_prays_after_opening_the_Holy_Door_in_St_Peters_Basilica_Dec_8_2015_launching_the_extraordinary_jubilee_of_mercy_Credit_LOsservatore_Romano_CNA.jpg)
Pope Francis prays after opening the Holy Door in St. Peters Basilica Dec. 8, 2015 launching the extraordinary jubilee of mercy. Credit: LOsservatore Romano
Vatican City, Dec 8, 2015 / 04:50 am (CNA/EWTN News).- Pope Francis has officially commenced the Jubilee of Mercy, calling those who pass through the newly-opened Holy Door to rediscover God’s mercy and experience the mystery of his love.

“This Extraordinary Holy Year is itself a gift of grace,” Pope Francis said in his homily for Mass, just before opening the Holy Door in St. Peter’s Basilica.
 ::snipping3::
Pope Francis presided over the rite of the Holy Door’s opening before passing through himself. He was followed by retired pontiff Benedict XVI, who attended the rite in one of his rare public appearances.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WNhBeZrI_Js
Benedetto XVI Varca la Porta Santa per Giubileo della Misericordia
Published on Dec 8, 2015
Benedetto XVI Varca la Porta Santa per Giubileo della Misericordia


Title: Re: Pope Benedict RESIGNING
Post by: grace-land on December 08, 2015, 08:42:48 PM
October 8, 2015 Tweets

https://twitter.com/roccopalmo
Rocco Palmo ‏@roccopalmo  · 14h14 hours ago 
Another Jubilee first – B16 crossing Holy Door immediately after his successor....
(https://pbs.twimg.com/media/CVs_snfWcAAQaRB.jpg)


Title: Re: Pope Benedict RESIGNING
Post by: grace-land on December 21, 2015, 03:20:18 PM
http://www.ncregister.com/blog/edward-pentin/pope-emeritus-makes-rare-appearance-to-thank-visiting-bavarians

Pope Emeritus Makes Rare Appearance to Thank Visiting Bavarians
by Edward Pentin  12/21/2015
(http://www.ncregister.com/images/sized/images/uploads/Screen_Shot_2015-12-21_at_10.45.28-1-255x127.png)
Pope Emeritus Benedict XVI and Bavarian dignitaries singing a German Christmas carol outside his residence on Friday. 
– Das Oberpfalznet/YouTube

Pope Emeritus Benedict XVI has made a rare public appearance to thank civil and ecclesiastical authorities from Bavaria for donating this year’s Vatican Christmas tree.

Speaking to the dignitaries outside his Mater Ecclesiae residence in the Vatican on Friday (see video here), Benedict said the lighting of the 82 foot spruce represents the light of God’s friendship to mankind which, he stressed, was especially important at this time.

“The tree tells us that God is our friend and that we are therefore friends and siblings with each other,” he said, according to Vatican Radio's German edition. “So this is a message that we need right now when there is such a threat of hostility and terror.”
 ::snipping3::

A short video...
https://www.facebook.com/RadioVatikanDeutsch/videos/vb.1006999125979090/1109603572385311/?type=2&theater


Title: Re: Pope Benedict RESIGNING
Post by: grace-land on December 31, 2015, 01:39:07 PM
http://www.news.va/en/news/concert-for-pope-emeritus-benedict-xvi

Concert for Pope Emeritus Benedict XVI
2015-12-31 Vatican Radio
(http://media02.radiovaticana.va/photo/2015/12/31/RV12249_LancioGrande.jpg)
(Vatican Radio) The “Hall of Assumption” in the Vatican Radio studios located in the Vatican Gardens on Wednesday afternoon hosted a special musical performance. It included a special member of the audience too – Pope Emeritus Benedict XVI.

The German choir “Jugendkantorei of Eichstatt Dom”, directed by Master Christian Heiss, is made up of 36 young people between the ages of 12 and 18 years. They are in Rome to attend the 40th International Congress of Young Singers.

The concert program, inspired by Christmas themes, included pieces by Mendelssohn, Brahms and Benjamin Britten. The carol "O du fröhliche” was actually arranged by Mgr. Georg Ratzinger, brother of the Pope Emeritus, who was also present at the concert, along with Mgr. Georg Gaenswein, Prefect of the Papal Household and Cardinal Giovanni Lajolo, former nuncio in Germany.
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Title: Re: Pope Benedict RESIGNING
Post by: grace-land on January 03, 2016, 04:12:28 PM
http://www.catholicnews.com/services/englishnews/2015/clear-and-colorful-a-common-property-in-unscripted-papal-preaching.cfm

Clear and colorful: A common property in unscripted papal preaching
By Carol Glatz Catholic News Service
12.30.2015 2:09 PM ET

VATICAN CITY (CNS) -- The god of Mammon, who is "like a wild animal, trying to clutch me with his talons and enslave me," and people not open to the Holy Spirit, who "are like swamps that give off foul-smelling gases," are just a few of the analogies that appear in the latest collection of papal homilies.

Rigid doctors of the law "imagine God as a kind of really strict school teacher who assigned humanity homework that only very few are able to do. For the majority, the notebook of life will be handed back with the grade: 'Poor!'"

If it sounds like the usual fare from Pope Francis, it is strongly similar, but the author in this case was Cardinal Joseph Ratzinger, the future Pope Benedict XVI.

Never-before published, the 10 homilies are informal, colorful, off-the-cuff reflections that seek to make the mystery, relevance and force of the faith clear and inspirational to everyday Catholics in a small Bavarian parish. The 100-page book -- currently available only in Italian -- is titled, "The Homilies of Pentling," the German village where the cardinal vacationed and kept a home he had hoped to retire to one day.

"Apart from a few small corrections, I kept the familiar style of the text just as it flowed out back then," the retired pope wrote in the book's preface. He said he hoped the homilies, taken from transcribed audio recordings between 1986 and 1999, would help not just "my fellow citizens of Pentling," but all readers in "understanding and living the word of the Gospel."

While Pope Francis consistently crafts clever, memorable metaphors in his writings and talks, many people don't remember that Pope Benedict was quite good at it, too.
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Title: Re: Pope Benedict RESIGNING
Post by: grace-land on February 11, 2016, 05:54:45 PM
http://www.jamaicaobserver.com/news/This-Day-in-History---February-11_51074

This Day in History - February 11
Thursday, February 11, 2016 
(http://www.jamaicaobserver.com/assets/12644956/185134.jpg)   

TODAY’S HIGHLIGHT

2013: Pope Benedict XVI does what no pope has done in more than half a millennium, announcing his resignation and sending the already troubled Roman Catholic church scrambling to replace the leader of its one billion followers.


Title: Re: Pope Benedict RESIGNING
Post by: grace-land on February 11, 2016, 06:05:58 PM
http://www.cruxnow.com/church/2016/02/11/three-years-ago-brought-historys-greatest-act-of-papal-humility/

Three years ago brought history’s greatest act of papal humility
By John L. Allen Jr.
Associate editor | February 11, 2016

By sheer coincidence, I was in Rome on Feb. 11, 2013. My wife and I had already moved back to the United States from Rome, but on that date I had returned to give a talk on religious freedom at the Italian Foreign Ministry, which is why I happened to be in town when the announcement of Pope Benedict XVI’s resignation was made.
 ::snipping3::
Benedict was the first pope to renounce his powers, not in the teeth of schism, foreign armies, or internal power struggles, but rather as the result of an honest self-examination that he simply wasn’t up to the demands of the office any longer.

Granted, some Italians believe Benedict stepped down because of a leaks scandal involving secret documents stolen by his former butler, or as the result of pressure from a nefarious insider lobby in the Vatican opposed to his efforts at “purification.” Benedict and those close to him, however, have consistently rejected those explanations, and in any event they don’t make his decision any less voluntary.

Despite Benedict’s reputation as an arch-conservative, this was a deeply innovative thing to do. Over the years, I’d consulted experts on the papacy in Rome who felt it was inconceivable, not to mention theologically impossible, for a pope to resign.

“My God,” one of those experts once told me. “Can you imagine a resigned pope? He might as well be the Archbishop of Canterbury!”

In truth, Benedict never got credit for the real humility he exuded throughout his life, including his eight-year run as pope.

Here’s a classic example: Shortly after the election of Pope Francis in March 2013, the new pontiff returned to the Rome residence where he’d stayed prior to the conclave, the Casa del Clero, in order to pack his own bag and pay his own bill. That episode became part of the “humble pope” narrative that has surrounded Francis ever since.

Know what Pope Benedict did after his election?

He returned to his apartment in Rome’s Piazza Leonina to pack his own bag, which he ported himself back to the papal quarters. His apartment was on the same floor with the residences of three other cardinals, and as he left, Benedict rang their doorbells to thank the startled nuns who acted as the household staffs for being such good neighbors.

(As a footnote, several of those sisters were Americans, members of the Mercy Sisters of Alma.)

Why does the story about Francis become legend, while the other about Benedict is almost forgotten? Because Benedict carried a bad narrative into the papacy, while Francis had the good luck to be able to shape his own.

In truth, those who’ve had the chance to interact with Benedict generally believe that no public figure in the modern era has suffered from a more dramatic disjunction between public image and private personality. In public, Benedict was seen as aloof and autocratic; in private, he came off as kind, gentle, and shy.

History will almost certainly portray Benedict in a kinder light than contemporary accounts. In the meantime, Church officials might want to consider marking Feb. 11 as the “Feast of Holy Humility”, because no matter what happens from here on out, they’re unlikely to get a better example at a higher level.


Title: Re: Pope Benedict RESIGNING
Post by: grace-land on February 11, 2016, 06:18:46 PM
http://www.catholicnewsagency.com/news/the-silent-reform-of-benedict-xvis-papacy-54175/

The silent reform of Benedict XVI's papacy
By Elise Harris

Vatican City, Feb 11, 2016 / 02:29 pm (CNA/EWTN News).- In his new book on Benedict XVI, Vatican journalist Marco Mancini argues that while the retired pontiff became known for his shocking resignation three years ago, his real legacy began far earlier.

“Unfortunately, we remember Benedict for the great gesture of the renunciation, but if we go on remembering Benedict only for that act, it would not be doing a service to truth of the facts,” Mancini told CNA.

Neither would it be a service to history, to his pontificate or his person, “because he really in eight years confronted the totality of the themes and the emergencies that the Catholic Church lived.”

Benedict XVI's Feb. 11, 2013, announcement of his resignation from the papacy – exactly three years ago today – hit the Church “light a lightning bolt in a clear blue sky,” said one cardinal who was present in the room when the pontiff stunned the Vatican and the rest of the world with his decision.

But in his book “Benedict XVI: Un Papa Totale,” translating roughly as “Benedict XVI: a Complete Pope,” Mancini, 33, said Benedict's most memorable act was not his resignation, but everything he did to carry the Church through the many difficult and varied crises it endured during his eight-year reign.

The book, which as of now is only available in Italian, was presented at the Vatican's Teutonic College Feb. 5. Speakers at the event included Mancini, Angela Ambrogetti – editor of CNA's Italian edition ACI Stampa – as well as Archbishop Georg Gaenswein, prefect of the Pontifical Household.

Archbishop Gaenswein told CNA that in his opinion, Benedict XVI's greatest legacy “is yet to be discovered,” but that an important one we can see now “the personal and theological witness of a man who is a great theologian, but who did theology in a very, very humble way.”

The “silent reform” Benedict carried out is centered on the way he guided and governed the Church, “above all with clarity, but above all with his fine theology,” the archbishop said.
 ::snipping3::
In terms of the resistance Benedict faced, Mancini said he believes it is the same “lobby” that is resisting Francis' process of reform.

“I think there is a lot of continuity between the two, whether it's among whoever tries to hinder the process of reform, or the way of reforming the Church,” he said, because Pope Francis “is continuing the same work that Pope Benedict started.”

“So I realize in speaking with many people, there's a need to thank Benedict more for what he did for the Catholic Church.”



Title: Re: Pope Benedict RESIGNING
Post by: grace-land on February 23, 2016, 09:31:42 PM
http://en.radiovaticana.va/news/2016/02/23/theological__pastoral_perspectives,__deus_caritas_est/1210691

Theological and pastoral perspectives, a decade after "Deus caritas est"
23/02/2016 17:12

(VIS) An international conference entitled "Love will never end. Prospects ten years on from the Encyclical Deus caritas est" will be held on Thursday 25 February in the Vatican's New Synod Hall. Organised by the Pontifical Council "Cor Unum", the conference forms part of the programme of events for the Jubilee of Mercy and has the aim of examining in depth the theological and pastoral implications of Pope Benedict XVI's first Encyclical for today's world, especially in relation to the activity of those who work in the Church's charitable service. The event will be attended by, among others, representatives of the episcopal conferences and Catholic charitable organisations from all over the world.
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Holy Mass will be celebrated on 25 and 26 February at 6 p.m. in the Church of Santa Maria della Pietà in Camposanto dei Teutonici (Our Lady of Mercy in the German Cemetery). On the first day Cardinal Paul Josef Cordes, president emeritus of "Cor Unum"; will preside, and on the second, Cardinal Robert Sarah, prefect of the Congregation for Divine Worship and the Discipline of the Sacraments.

The conference will be fully broadcast by web streaming on the Pontifical Council "Cor Unum" website.
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The link for Pontifical Council "Cor Unum" website:  http://www.corunumjubilaeum.va/content/corunumexpo/en.html


Title: Re: Pope Benedict RESIGNING
Post by: grace-land on February 26, 2016, 05:55:06 PM
http://www.news.va/en/news/benedict-xvi-centre-roots-of-culture-bridges-of-di

Benedict XVI Centre: roots of culture, bridges of discourse
2016-02-26 Vatican Radio
(http://media02.radiovaticana.va/photo/2016/02/26/RV13739_LancioGrande.jpg)
(Vatican Radio) The Benedict XVI Centre for Religion and Society is a new interdisciplinary endeavor designed to create synergy and explore existing connections among the social sciences as these pertain to religion and the study of religion. Founded by St. Mary’s University, Twickenham, with the approval of the Secretariat of State of the Holy See, the Benedict XVI Centre for Religion and Society brings together existing strands of research and seeks to foster new projects with partner researchers and organizations.

The Centre’s founding ethos and central conviction is rooted in the enduring vision of Catholic higher education, as enunciated in the Apostolic Constitution Ex corde Ecclesiae of Pope St. John Paul II on the nature and purpose of the Catholic university in the life of the Church and the world.

Among the external affiliates of the Centre is Vatican Radio’s Chris Altieri, who spoke with the Centre’s founder and first Director, Dr. Stephen Bullivant, about the initiative and its efforts to recover the Christian roots of our increasingly secular culture.

Click below to hear Chris Altieri’s extended conversation with Dr. Stephen Bullivant
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Title: Re: Pope Benedict RESIGNING
Post by: grace-land on February 26, 2016, 05:59:07 PM
http://www.catholicherald.co.uk/news/2016/02/25/university-opens-benedict-xvi-centre-approved-by-the-holy-see/

University opens Benedict XVI centre approved by the Holy See
posted Thursday, 25 Feb 2016
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The Pope Emeritus visited the university in 2010, leading a “Big Assembly” with 3,500 school children and meeting leaders of different religions.

St Mary’s has also established the “Benedict XVI House”, where a lay community made up of staff and full-time students pursue a life focused on prayer.

The new Benedict XVI centre, according to the website, was “founded upon the conviction that interdisciplinary research, in which the sciences are brought into direct engagement with theology and ethics, is central to the life of a Catholic university (cf. Pope St John Paul II, Ex Corde Ecclesiae, 46).”

One of its first projects is to mark the 50th anniversary of Paul VI’s encyclical Humanae Vitae with a book that draws together scholars from different disciplines.
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Title: Re: Pope Benedict RESIGNING
Post by: grace-land on March 16, 2016, 10:10:50 PM
https://www.lifesitenews.com/news/pope-emeritus-benedict-says-church-is-now-facing-a-two-sided-deep-crisis

Wed Mar 16, 2016 - 11:49 am EST
Pope Emeritus Benedict breaks silence: speaks of ‘deep crisis’ facing Church post-Vatican II

March 16, 2016 (LifeSiteNews.com) -- On March 16, speaking publicly on a rare occasion, Pope Benedict XVI gave an interview to Avvenire, the daily newspaper of the Italian Bishops' Conference, in which he spoke of a “two-sided deep crisis” the Church is facing in the wake of the Second Vatican Council. The report has already hit Germany courtesy of Vaticanist Guiseppe Nardi, of the German Catholic news website Katholisches.info.

Pope Benedict reminds us of the formerly indispensable Catholic conviction of the possibility of the loss of eternal salvation, or that people go to hell:

The missionaries of the 16th century were convinced that the unbaptized person is lost forever. After the [Second Vatican] Council, this conviction was definitely abandoned. The result was a two-sided, deep crisis. Without this attentiveness to the salvation, the Faith loses its foundation.

He also speaks of a “profound evolution of Dogma” with respect to the Dogma that there is no salvation outside the Church. This purported change of dogma has led, in the pope's eyes, to a loss of the missionary zeal in the Church – “any motivation for a future missionary commitment was removed.”

Pope Benedict asks the piercing question that arose after this palpable change of attitude of the Church: “Why should you try to convince the people to accept the Christian faith when they can be saved even without it?”
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Title: Re: Pope Benedict RESIGNING
Post by: grace-land on March 16, 2016, 10:14:10 PM
http://www.catholicnews.com/services/englishnews/2016/pope-benedict-yearning-for-mercy-is-sign-of-longing-for-gods-love.cfm

Pope Benedict: Yearning for mercy is sign of longing for God's love
By Cindy Wooden Catholic News Service
3.16.2016 4:40 PM ET

VATICAN CITY (CNS) -- Although he lives a relatively hidden life in a villa in the Vatican Gardens, retired Pope Benedict XVI continues to study modern theological questions and, occasionally, to comment on them publicly.

The attention Pope Francis and many Christians are giving to the theme of divine mercy is a "sign of the times" that shows how, deep down, people still experience a need for God, the retired pope told Belgian Jesuit Father Jacques Servais in a written interview.

"Mercy is what moves us toward God, while justice makes us tremble in his sight," Pope Benedict said in the interview published in mid-March.

Archbishop Georg Ganswein, the retired pope's personal secretary, read Pope Benedict's German text in October at a conference on the doctrine of justification and the experience of God. The retired pope approved the Italian translation of the text, which was published along with other papers presented at the conference.

The doctrine of justification -- how people are made righteous in God's eyes and saved by Jesus -- was at the heart of the Protestant Reformation, which will mark its 500th anniversary in 2017.

In the interview, Pope Benedict said, "For people today, unlike at the time of (Martin) Luther and from the classical perspective of the Christian faith, things have been turned upside down in a certain sense: Man no longer thinks he needs to be justified in God's sight, but rather he is of the opinion that it is God who must justify himself because of all the horrendous things present in the world and in the face of human misery."
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Title: Re: Pope Benedict RESIGNING
Post by: grace-land on March 17, 2016, 08:47:45 PM
http://www.catholicnewsagency.com/news/full-text-of-benedict-xvis-recent-rare-and-lengthy-interview-26142/

Full text of Benedict XVI's recent, rare, and lengthy interview

Vatican City, Mar 17, 2016 / 11:50 am (CNA/EWTN News).- In a recently published interview on issues of justification and faith, Benedict XVI has addressed issues of mercy and our need for forgiveness, salvation through the cross, the necessity of baptism, and the importance of sharing in Christ's redeeming love.

The discussion with Fr. Jacques Servais, SJ, took place ahead of an October, 2015 conference in Rome studying the doctrine of justification by faith.

Benedict's answers, originally in German, were read aloud as a text at the conference by the Prefect of the Pontifical Household, Archbishop Georg Gänswein.

They were later published as the introduction to a book in Italian on the conference texts and conclusions, titled “Through Faith: Doctrine of Justification and Experience of God in the Preaching of the Church and the Spiritual Exercises,” by Fr. Daniel Libanori, SJ.

The emeritus Pope began by noting that faith has both a personal and a communal nature, saying that “the encounter with God means also, at the same time, that I myself become open, torn from my closed solitude and received into the living community of the Church.”

He emphasized that both faith and the Church come from God, and are neither self-generating nor man-made.

“The Church must introduce the individual Christian into an encounter with Jesus Christ and bring Christians into His presence in the sacrament,” Benedict remarked.

He then focused on modern man's tendency to ignore any personal sin and need for justification, and to focus instead on the suffering in the world, believing that God has to justify himself for this suffering.

“However, in my opinion, there continues to exist, in another way, the perception that we are in need of grace and forgiveness,” he said, pointing to the recent emphasis on mercy in the pontificates of both St. John Paul II and Pope Francis.

Pope Francis' “pastoral practice is expressed in the fact that he continually speaks to us of God's mercy,” he said. “It is mercy that moves us toward God, while justice frightens us before Him.”

“In my view, this makes clear that, under a veneer of self-assuredness and self-righteousness, the man of today hides a deep knowledge of his wounds and his unworthiness before God. He is waiting for mercy.”

Benedict suggested that the popularity of the parable of the Good Samaritan expresses this underlying desire for God and his mercy, adding that “it seems to me that in the theme of divine mercy is expressed in a new way what is means by justification by faith.”

He discussed how an old understanding of the Cross, articulated by St. Anselm, is difficult for modern man to relate to because of its focus on justice and its apparent juxtaposition of the Father and the Son.

The emeritus Pope reflected that God “simply cannot leave 'as is' the mass of evil that comes from the freedom that he himself has granted. Only He, coming to share in the world's suffering, can redeem the world.”

In the Cross, he said, one perceives “what God's mercy means, what the participation of God in man's suffering means. It is not a matter of a cruel justice, not a matter of the Father's fanaticism, but rather of the truth and the reality of creation: the true intimate overcoming of evil that ultimately can be realized only in the suffering of love.”

The discussion then turned to the missionary impulse, which was once informed by the conviction that all who died unbaptized would certainly go to hell.

Benedict noted, “there is no doubt that on this point we are faced with a profound evolution of dogma” and that since the 1950s “the understanding that God cannot let go to perdition all the unbaptized … has been fully affirmed.”

He noted that the great missionaries of the 1500s were compelled by their belief in the absolute necessity of baptism for salvation, and that the changing understanding of this necessity led to “a deep double crisis”: a loss of motivation for missionary work, and a loss of motivation for the faith itself.

The emeritus Pope addressed both the theory of the 'anonymous Christian' and indifferentism as inadequate solutions to the crises, and offered instead the idea that Christ's loving suffering for the world is the solution, which must become our model.

He concluded by again emphasizing that the true solution to evil is the love of Christ: “The counterweight to the dominion of evil can consist in the first place only in the divine-human love of Jesus Christ that is always greater than any possible power of evil.”

“But it is necessary that we place ourselves inside this answer that God gives us through Jesus Christ,” he added, saying that receiving the sacrament of confession “certainly has an important role in this field.”

Receiving confession, he said, “means that we always allow ourselves to be molded and transformed by Christ and that we pass continuously from the side of him who destroys to the side of Him who saves.”

Below please find L’Osservatore Romano’s full English translation of the interview:
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Title: Re: Pope Benedict RESIGNING
Post by: grace-land on March 24, 2016, 11:21:03 PM
http://www.news24.com/World/News/elderly-pope-benedict-xvi-slowly-fading-20160324

Elderly pope Benedict XVI 'slowly fading'
2016-03-24 21:02

Rome - Pope emeritus Benedict XVI is "slowly, serenely fading" but remains "very lucid", his personal secretary said in an interview published on Thursday.

Joseph Ratzinger is "an old man, of course, but very lucid. Unfortunately, it's become difficult for him to walk and he needs to use a walking frame," Georg Gaenswein said in an interview with the Italian magazine BenEssere.

In 2013, Benedict became the first head of the Catholic Church to resign in seven centuries, amid speculation he was on the verge of a nervous breakdown, unable to cope at the top of an institution beset by scandals.

He said he no longer had the strength of mind or body to carry on, but his health appeared to improve after he stepped down and moved into a former convent in the grounds of the Vatican.

"In April, Benedict XVI will be 89 years old. He's like a candle which is slowly, serenely fading. He is serene, at peace with God, himself and the world," said Gaenswein.
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Title: Re: Pope Benedict RESIGNING
Post by: grace-land on March 30, 2016, 08:09:59 PM
http://www.catholicnewsagency.com/news/benedict-xvi-responds-to-mother-angelicas-death-17055/

Benedict XVI responds to Mother Angelica's death

Vatican City, Mar 28, 2016 / 02:54 pm (CNA/EWTN News).- Benedict XVI had a special response to Mother Angelica’s death falling on Easter Sunday: “it’s a gift.”

Archbishop Georg Ganswein, Benedict’s personal secretary, told CNA about the Pope emeritus’ comment March 28.

Mother Angelica, an Ohio-born Poor Clare nun, founded EWTN Global Catholic Network in Alabama in 1981. It has since become the largest religious media network in the world. She passed away March 27, Easter Sunday, at the age of 92.
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Title: Re: Pope Benedict RESIGNING
Post by: grace-land on April 06, 2016, 08:00:10 PM
http://www.catholicworldreport.com/Item/4686/regensburg_revisited_ten_years_later_a_west_still_in_denial.aspx

Regensburg Revisited: Ten Years Later, A West Still in Denial
April 04, 2016

A decade ago, a 79 year-old soft-spoken, white-haired German theologian returned to visit a university at which he had spent much of his academic career. On such occasions, it’s not unusual for a distinguished professor-emeritus to offer some formal remarks. Such reflections rarely receive much attention, and are often seen as exercises in reminiscing by scholars whose most substantial achievements are behind them.

In this instance, however, the speech delivered at the University of Regensburg on 12 September 2006 by the theologian Joseph Ratzinger, better known as Pope Benedict XVI, had immediate global impact. For weeks, even months afterwards, newspapers, magazines, scholarly journals, and even entire books attacked, defended, and analyzed the almost 4,000 words which came to be known as the Regensburg Address. Copies of the text and effigies of its author, however, were also ripped up, trampled on, and publicly burnt throughout the Islamic world. Television screens were dominated by images of enraged Muslim mobs and passionate denunciations by Muslim leaders, most of whom had clearly not read the text.
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Title: Re: Pope Benedict RESIGNING
Post by: grace-land on April 15, 2016, 05:33:49 PM
Happy 89th Birthday, Pope Benedict XVI!   :smt113

https://zenit.org/articles/pope-benedicts-celebrates-89th-birthday-tomorrow/

Pope Benedict XVI Celebrates 89th Birthday Tomorrow
April 15, 2016

While Pope Francis makes a pastoral visit to the Greek island of Lesbos to meet with refugees tomorrow, Pope Emeritus Benedict XVI will celebrate his 89th birthday.

Last year, Francis offered his morning Mass at Casa Santa Marta for his predecessor.
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Title: Re: Pope Benedict RESIGNING
Post by: grace-land on April 15, 2016, 05:46:58 PM
From a blog by Cardinal Donald Wuerl

http://cardinalsblog.adw.org/2016/04/the-fruitful-witness-of-the-family-of-pope-benedict-xvi/

The Fruitful Witness of the Family of Pope Benedict XVI
(http://cardinalsblog.adw.org/wp-content/uploads/2016/04/Pope-Benedict-XVI-IgnatuiusPress-Photo.png)
Joseph Ratzinger Jr. (left), Georg Ratzinger, Maria (Peintner) Ratzinger, Maria Ratzinger, Joseph Ratzinger Sr. (Photo is dated 1937 – Credit: Ignatius Press)

Eighty-nine years ago tomorrow, in the early morning of Holy Saturday 1927, Joseph Ratzinger was born in a small town in Bavaria, Germany.  That same day, he was reborn in Jesus Christ – the first baby baptized in the newly-blessed waters of Easter.  “I have always been filled with thanksgiving for having had my life immersed in this way in the Easter mystery, since this could only be a sign of blessing,” he would later say in his memoirs (Milestones, 8 ). Within this blessing, we must include his parents Mary and Joseph.

The Christian family is a domestic Church where children first encounter love and faith, affirms Pope Francis in his recent post-synodal apostolic exhortation Amoris Laetitia. In a particular way, beginning with the witness of parents, the family is the everyday place to encounter the Lord and thus is a school of the Gospel and authentic humanity. It is here where faith is first planted and where it grows, instilling in children the virtues of hope and love for God and one another.
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Title: Re: Pope Benedict RESIGNING
Post by: grace-land on April 16, 2016, 09:49:12 PM
http://www.news.va/en/news/pope-benedict-celebrates-89th-birthday

Pope Benedict celebrates 89th Birthday
2016-04-16 Vatican Radio
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On board the Papal plane en route to the Greek island of Lesbos where he is visiting refugees, Pope Francis remembered his predecessor in his prayers saying, "I would like to remind you that today is the 89th birthday of Pope Benedict XVI. Pray for him"

Later this evening the Pope Emeritus is expected to attend a concert in his honour in the Vatican.

Below find the message of Pope Francis on the occasion of Pope Emeritus' Benedict XVI's birthday

The Holy Father Francis, along with all those who accompany him in his visit to Lesbos - entourage and journalists send Emeritus Pope Benedict XVI the most affectionate and cordial greetings on the occasion of his 89th birthday, asking the Lord to continue to bless his precious service of closeness and prayer for the whole Church.


Title: Re: Pope Benedict RESIGNING
Post by: grace-land on May 06, 2016, 08:46:47 PM
http://en.radiovaticana.va/news/2016/05/05/the_benedict_xvi_center_opens_with_a_focus_on_interdisciplin/1227830

The Benedict XVI Center opens with a focus on interdisciplinarity
05/05/2016 20:38

(Vatican Radio) The Benedict XVI Center for Religion and Society was inaugurated on Thursday at St Mary’s University in Twickenham,  London.

Vatican Radio’s Christopher Altieri, Professor of Philosophy and an external affiliate of the Center, explained to Linda Bordoni that the Centre aims to establish itself as an “international hub” for research to foster links between theology and the social sciences:

Christopher Altieri explains the Center was officially approved in 2015 as part of efforts to mark the 5th anniversary of the visit of Pope Benedict XVI to the United Kingdom.

He explains that its purpose is to foster dialogue among scholars who come from different disciplines.

“Inter-disciplinarity is one of those academic ‘buzz words’ that get tossed around a lot but don’t always receive careful consideration about what it means and the Center is trying to get it right” he says.

Altieri says members and participants are committed to getting interdisciplinary research right especially in regards to social sciences and their consideration of the role of religion in society and in public life.
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Title: Re: Pope Benedict RESIGNING
Post by: grace-land on May 10, 2016, 09:10:34 PM
http://www.catholicnewsagency.com/news/a-masters-degree-in-the-works-of-benedict-xvi-yep-its-happening-95583/

A master's degree in the works of Benedict XVI? Yep, it's happening

Rome, Italy, May 9, 2016 / 04:11 pm (CNA/EWTN News).- No Catholic who wants to take an in-depth look into the faith and the reality of the Church of our time can skip the works of the “Theologian Pope”, Benedict XVI. To really deepen one’s knowledge, or to literally become an expert in all things Joseph Ratzinger, one can begin a new master’s program which began in February of this year. During two semesters at the Patristic Institute Augustinianum in Rome, the program, “Joseph Ratzinger: Studies and Spirituality,” teaches in eight parts the works and spirituality of the emeritus Pope. The program is offered in English and Italian, and one of its professors is Monsignor Florian Kolfhaus, who spoke with CNA about the program.
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Title: Re: Pope Benedict RESIGNING
Post by: grace-land on May 21, 2016, 01:34:42 PM
http://www.news.va/en/news/pope-emeritus-third-secret-of-fatima-was-released

Pope emeritus: Third Secret of Fatima was released in full
2016-05-21 Vatican Radio
(http://media02.radiovaticana.va/photo/2016/05/13/AFP5291442_LancioGrande.jpg)
(Vatican Radio) Pope emeritus Benedict XVI has said he never told anyone the publication of the “Third Secret of Fatima” in the year 2000 was incomplete, and confirmed the document was published in its totality.

A Communiqué was published Saturday by the Holy See Press Office on various articles regarding the “Third Secret of Fatima.”

“ Several articles have appeared recently, including declarations attributed to Professor Ingo Dollinger according to which Cardinal Ratzinger, after the publication of the Third Secret of Fatima (which took place in June 2000), had confided to him that the publication was not complete,” – the Communiqué reads – “In this regard, Pope emeritus Benedict XVI declares ‘never to have spoken with Professor Dollinger about Fatima’, clearly affirming that the remarks attributed to Professor Dollinger on the matter ‘are pure inventions, absolutely untrue’, and he confirms decisively that ‘the publication of the  Third Secret of Fatima is complete’.”
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Title: Re: Pope Benedict RESIGNING
Post by: grace-land on May 22, 2016, 06:47:43 PM
http://www.lastampa.it/2016/05/21/vaticaninsider/eng/the-vatican/ratzinger-the-third-secret-of-fatima-has-been-fully-published-OXrIthegUgMVgPQRIfuoGL/pagina.html

Ratzinger: The Third Secret of Fatima has been fully published
21/05/2016

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And for his part, Pope Emeritus Benedict XVI “is well,” even in consideration of his 89 years. “He prays, he loves to study and read, he dedicates his time to correspondence, he walks the rosary in the Vatican gardens, and receives visits.” This was reported by the secretary, Monsignor George Gaenswein, at the presentation of a book on the papacy of Joseph Ratzinger at the Pontifical Gregorian University.

“You will see for yourself soon,” he added. On June 29, Ratzinger will celebrate 65 years of priesthood. “We will see what we can organize. It is an objective opportunity that gives hope of being able to see him, and to demonstrate,” added Gaenswein, jokingly, “that my sentence about the candle was stupid.” 

In fact, when speaking to an Italian newsweekly, the secretary to the Pope Emeritus had said that Benedict is like a candle that is fading very slowly. “I never knew that in Italian, this could have a negative meaning. To say he is like a candle means that the strength of his light remains the same,” he explained.

The Pope Emeritus “is serene, and is at peace with God, with himself and with the world,” added Monsignor Gaenswein. He continues to receive people but recently has had to slow the flow of visits, “because every day brings many letters to read and too many books, including manuscripts.”
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Title: Re: Pope Benedict RESIGNING
Post by: grace-land on May 23, 2016, 10:52:40 PM
http://www.ncregister.com/blog/edward-pentin/archbishop-gaenswein-recalls-dramatic-struggle-of-2005-conclave

Archbishop Gänswein: Benedict XVI Sees Resignation as Expanding Petrine Ministry
05/23/2016

In a speech reflecting on Pope Benedict XVI’s pontificate, Archbishop Georg Gänswein has confirmed the existence of a group who fought against Benedict’s election in 2005, but stressed that "Vatileaks" or other issues had "little or nothing" to do with his resignation in 2013.

Speaking at the presentation of a new book on Benedict’s pontificate at the Pontifical Gregorian University in Rome May 20, Archbishop Gänswein also said that Pope Francis and Benedict are not two popes “in competition” with one another, but represent one “expanded” Petrine Office with “an active member” and a “contemplative.”

Archbishop Gänswein, who doubles as the personal secretary of the Pope Emeritus and prefect of the Pontifical Household, said Benedict did not abandon the papacy like Pope Celestine V in the 13th century but rather sought to continue his Petrine Office in a more appropriate way given his frailty.
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Title: Re: Pope Benedict RESIGNING
Post by: grace-land on June 27, 2016, 11:03:33 PM
http://www.ncregister.com/daily-news/will-the-papacy-end-with-francis-a-rare-interview-with-archbishop-gaenswein

Will the Papacy End With Francis? A Rare Interview With Archbishop Gänswein
by ANIAN CHRISTOPH WIMMER/CNA/EWTN NEWS
06/27/2016
(http://www.ncregister.com/images/sized/images/editorial/ArchbishopGeorgGanswein-255x257.jpg)
ROME — What is Benedict XVI's own view of his historical resignation? What has the fallout been from his secretary Archbishop Georg Gänswein's controversial remark on an “expanded Petrine office”? What about the “Prophecy of St. Malachy,” which allegedly sees Francis as the last pope?

In a recent and candid conversation, veteran journalist and EWTN Rome correspondent Paul Badde sat down with Archbishop Gänswein, who gave his take on these and a number of other questions.

The German archbishop currently serves Pope Francis as prefect of the papal household, and he has also maintained his duties as secretary for the pope emeritus, Benedict XVI.
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Title: Re: Pope Benedict RESIGNING
Post by: grace-land on June 27, 2016, 11:19:44 PM
http://www.ncregister.com/blog/edward-pentin/pope-francis-on-pope-emeritus-the-wise-grandfather-at-home

Pope Francis on Pope Emeritus: ‘The Wise Grandfather at Home’
by Edward Pentin 
06/27/2016

At noon tomorrow, Pope Francis and Pope Emeritus Benedict XVI will make another rare appearance together at a ceremony to celebrate the 65th anniversary of Benedict’s ordination to the priesthood.

During the event, to take place in the Clementine Hall of the Apostolic Palace, the Holy Father will present Benedict XVI with a book entitled Teaching and Learning the Love of God, a collection of Joseph Ratzinger’s homilies on the priesthood. Also present will be Benedict’s brother, Msgr. Georg Ratzinger (they were ordained together), and a few senior Vatican officials.

The ceremony will be televised on Vatican television and also streamed live on YouTube here. Due to the Feast of Sts. Peter and Paul on Wednesday, the event actually takes place a day ahead of the anniversary, which falls on June 29th.
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https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-FljWR9eELE
Sixty-fifth anniversary of the priesthood of Pope Emeritus, Benedict XVI - 2016.06.28
Scheduled for Jun 28, 2016
Pope Francis participates in the solemn ceremony for the 65th anniversary of the priesthood of Pope Emeritus, Benedict XVI.


Title: Re: Pope Benedict RESIGNING
Post by: grace-land on June 28, 2016, 08:29:45 PM
http://www.thetablet.co.uk/news/5768/0/francis-says-benedict-s-contribution-continues-to-be-unceasing-on-65th-anniversary-of-his-ordination

Francis says Benedict's contribution continues to be unceasing on 65th anniversary of his ordination
28 June 2016
(http://www.thetablet.co.uk/UserFiles/images/news/300x300/ratzinger_brothers_ordination_300.png)
PICTURE: Georg (left) and Joseph Ratzinger at their ordination on the feast of Saints Peter and Paul in the cathedral of Freising, Bavaria, in 1951

Pope Emeritus has never ceased to aid growth of the Church with his 'strength and wisdom'

Benedict XVI today celebrated the 65th anniversary of his ordination to the priesthood in a special ceremony attended by Pope Francis.

During the ceremony, celebrated at the Sala Clementina within the Apostolic Palace, German Cardinal Gerhard Ludwig Müller presented Benedict XVI with a book entitled 'Teaching and Learning the Love of God', a collection of Joseph Ratzinger’s homilies on the priesthood. More than 30 cardinals were present, as well as a number of other invited guests.

Joseph Aloisius Ratzinger was ordained a priest on 29 June 1951 on the feast of Saints Peter and Paul, in the cathedral of Freising by the then-Cardinal Archbishop of Munich, Michael von Faulhaber. In his memoirs, written in 2005, Benedict describes the day as the most important of his life.

He explains there were 40 candidates for ordination, and that “when we were called we responded: ‘Here I am.’” Cautioning the reader not to be superstitious, Benedict recounts how when the elderly archbishop laid his hands on the future Pope’s head, “a small bird – perhaps a lark – rose up from the high altar of the cathedral and sang a joyful little song”.

“For me it was as if a voice from on high were telling me: it’s ok, you’re on the right path,” he writes. Benedict’s older brother, Georg, was ordained a priest alongside him.

Pope Francis said that Benedict continues to serve the Church, “not ceasing to truly contribute to her growth with strength and wisdom”.
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Title: Re: Pope Benedict RESIGNING
Post by: grace-land on June 28, 2016, 08:39:34 PM
Video at the link
http://www.romereports.com/2016/06/28/benedict-xvi-addresses-a-speech-to-pope-francis

Benedict XVI addresses a speech to Pope Francis
2016-06-28

Holy Father, dear friends,

65 years ago, a fellow priest who was ordained on the same day wrote on the memorial card for his first Mass his name, the date and a single word in Greek: Eucharistomen. This word, in all its dimensions, expresses all that can be said at this moment. Eucharistomen is also about human thanksgiving... Thank you all. A special thanks to you, Holy Father!

Your kindness, from the first moment of the election, in every moment of my life here, strikes me, is a source of real inspiration for me. More than in the Vatican Gardens, with their beauty, your goodness is the place where I dwell: I feel protected.

Thank you for your words, for everything. And we hope you continue to guide us along this path of Divine Mercy, showing us the way to Jesus, Jesus, to God.
 ::snipping3::

http://catholic.net/op/articles/2738/francis-address-to-benedict-for-65th-anniversary-of-pope-emeritus-priestly-ordination-.html
Francis' address to Benedict for 65th Anniversary of Pope Emeritus' Priestly Ordination

(ZENIT, Vatican City, June 28, 2016).- Below is a ZENIT translation of Pope Francis’ address to Benedict XVI for 65th Anniversary of Pope Emeritus’ Priestly Ordination at the commemoration held today at noon in the Sala Clementina of the Apostolic Palace.
* * *
Holiness,

Today we celebrate the history of a call that began sixty-five years ago with Your Priestly Ordination, which took place in the Cathedral of Freising on June 29, 1951. But what is the underlying note that runs through this long history and that from that first beginning up to today dominates it ever more?
 ::snipping3::


Title: Re: Pope Benedict RESIGNING
Post by: grace-land on June 28, 2016, 08:51:35 PM
https://twitter.com/EdwardPentin?ref_src=twsrc%5Egoogle%7Ctwcamp%5Eserp%7Ctwgr%5Eauthor
Edward Pentin Retweeted

 Diane Montagna ‏@dianemontagna  · 10h  10 hours ago 
Pope Emeritus, Benedict XVI at his finest as he thanks Pope Francis, Cardinals @AleteiaEn
(https://o.twimg.com/2/proxy.jpg?t=HBiLAWh0dHA6Ly9hbGV0ZWlhZW4uZmlsZXMud29yZHByZXNzLmNvbS8yMDE2LzA2L3dlYi1wb3BlLWJlbmVkaWN0LXh2aS1mcmFuY2lzLWFuaXZlcnNhcnktMjAxNi0wMDBfY2o1NXEtaG8tb3NzZXJ2YXRvcmUtcm9tYW5vLWFmcC1haS5qcGc_dz02NDAUgAoUnAUcFIQGFJQDAAAWABIA&s=SUfYe4bnBktX2m62YWCCsZmoFR33SdIpSS6AvqMpvsY)

Edward Pentin ‏@EdwardPentin  · 8h  8 hours ago 
Benedict XVI to Francis: 'your goodness is a place where I feel protected' -via @cnalive
(https://o.twimg.com/2/proxy.jpg?t=HBjjAWh0dHA6Ly93d3cuY2F0aG9saWNuZXdzYWdlbmN5LmNvbS9pbWFnZXMvQmVuZWRpY3RfWFZJX3NwZWFrc190b19Qb3BlX0ZyYW5jaXNfYW5kX3RoZV9Db2xsZWdlX29mX0NhcmRpbmFsc19pbnNpZGVfdGhlX1ZhdGljYW5fUGFsYWNlX0p1bmVfMjhfMjAxNl9mb3JfdGhlXzY1dGhfYW5uaXZlcnNhcnlfb2ZfaGlzX3ByaWVzdGx5X29yZGluYXRpb25fQ3JlZGl0X3NjcmVlbnNob3RfRVdUTl9DTkEuanBnFNAKFMYFHBSEBhSUAwAAFgASAA&s=pIwR_744WbNdVMkuRQau9HuPPsh9M24tAJCmrtrXQok)




Title: Re: Pope Benedict RESIGNING
Post by: grace-land on July 01, 2016, 08:34:21 PM
http://www.catholicnewsagency.com/news/benedict-xvi-talks-resignation-pope-francis-in-new-book-length-interview-16990/

Benedict XVI talks resignation, Pope Francis in new book-length interview

Vatican City, Jul 1, 2016 / 07:06 am (CNA/EWTN News).- Though he has rarely spoken since resigning from the papacy, Benedict XVI granted several lengthy interviews to German journalist Peter Seewald shortly after stepping down - conversations that touched on themes such as the reform of the Curia, his resignation and his thoughts on Pope Francis.

The interviews, conducted a few months after Benedict’s Feb. 28, 2013, resignation, are set to be released in one book simultaneously worldwide Sept. 9, according to Italian daily “Corriere della Sera.”

About 240 pages in length, the book in German is titled "Letzte Gespräche," or, "Final Conversations," and “touches upon all the most important stages of life of Joseph Ratzinger.”

These stages include Benedict’s childhood under the Nazi regime, the discovery of his vocation to the priesthood, the hardships of the war and his time in the Vatican until his election to the papacy. It also covers “the anxiety” of his first few days as successor of St. Peter, as well as his “painful” decision to resign and his thoughts on Pope Francis.
 ::snipping3::


Title: Re: Pope Benedict RESIGNING
Post by: grace-land on July 01, 2016, 08:39:09 PM
http://www.catholicnews.com/services/englishnews/2016/new-book-with-retired-pope-benedict-due-in-early-september.cfm

New book with retired Pope Benedict due in early September
By Cindy Wooden Catholic News Service
7.1.2016 10:18 AM ET

VATICAN CITY (CNS) -- Retired Pope Benedict XVI has given another interview to the journalist and author Peter Seewald, and a German publisher announced it would be released worldwide Sept. 9.

Titled "Letzte Gesprache," (which translates as "last conversations"), the book includes an in-depth conversation with the retired pope about the background of his resignation in 2013, said the German publisher, Droemer Knaur.

Information about an English translation and publisher was not immediately available.
 ::snipping3::



Title: Re: Pope Benedict RESIGNING
Post by: grace-land on July 01, 2016, 08:43:18 PM
http://www.thetablet.co.uk/news/5786/0/benedict-xvi-says-he-dismantled-vatican-s-gay-lobby-

Benedict XVI says he dismantled Vatican's ‘gay lobby’
01 July 2016 | by Megan Cornwell   

Benedicts' comments were reported today in Italy's daily newspaper Corriere della Sera

Pope Emeritus Benedict has alleged there was a so-called ‘gay lobby’ operating in the Vatican while he was Pope, but added that no one pressurised him to resign.

Benedicts' comments were reported today in Italy's daily newspaper, Corriere della Sera, which has acquired the Italian newspaper rights for excerpts to a book of interviews between the retired pope and the journalist and author Peter Seewald.

During one of the interviews, the Pope Emeritus said he was aware of a group of between four or five gay people who tried to influence decisions during his papacy. The articles says he was able to break up the group.
 ::snipping3::
In the article they reveal how Benedict kept a diary during his papacy, which he now plans to destroy, despite its historical significance. They also include details of the Pope Emeritus’ life, faith and papacy, including his thoughts on current pope, Francis.


Title: Re: Pope Benedict RESIGNING
Post by: grace-land on July 05, 2016, 11:32:19 PM
http://www.ncregister.com/blog/edward-pentin/full-english-transcript-of-archbishop-gaensweins-interview-with-ewtn-german

English Transcript of Archbishop Gänswein's EWTN Germany Interview
by Edward Pentin 
07/05/2016

In a recent wide-ranging interview on EWTN Germany, Archbishop Georg Gänswein discussed several key contemporary issues including his own controversial remark that, by resigning, Benedict XVI expanded the Petrine office.

During the candid conversation with German author Paul Badde (see full transcript below), the Pope Emeritus’ personal secretary stood by his comment, but also underlined that there are not two popes, and that Francis has full authority.
 ::snipping3::




Title: Re: Pope Benedict RESIGNING
Post by: grace-land on July 24, 2016, 05:19:56 PM
http://www.catholicnewsagency.com/news/munich-archbishop-expresses-profound-grief-over-deadly-shooting-86184/

Munich archbishop, Benedict XVI grieve deadly shooting

Munich, Germany, Jul 23, 2016 / 08:11 am (CNA/EWTN News).- The archbishop of Munich has called for prayers for the victims of Friday’s deadly shooting at a shopping mall, and condemned acts of violence which “poison” society with fear.

"This horrific crime deeply affects me and fills me with profound grief," Cardinal Reinhard Marx is quoted as saying in a July 23 statement by the Archdiocese of Munich and Freising.

"My prayers are with the victims and their families,” said the head of the German Bishops' Conference said, adding: “I hope that the many injured can return home soon."
 ::snipping3::
Pope Emeritus Benedict XVI, who had served as archbishop of Munich and Freising as Cardinal Joseph Ratzinger from 1977-1982, has reportedly also responded to the attacks, via the prefect of the papal household, Archbishop Georg Gaenswein.

Having been informed about the incident, Benedict XVI “prays for the innocent victims, and expresses condolences and closeness to the families,” the Vatican Insider reports.
 ::snipping3::



Title: Re: Pope Benedict RESIGNING
Post by: grace-land on August 01, 2016, 05:51:45 PM
http://en.radiovaticana.va/news/2016/08/01/father_lombardi_appointed_chairman_of_ratzinger_foundation/1248625

Father Lombardi appointed Chairman of Ratzinger Foundation
01/08/2016 19:10
(http://media02.radiovaticana.va/photo/2016/08/01/ANSA1048172_LancioGrande.jpg)
(Vatican Radio) After ten years as Director of the Holy See Press Office, Father Federico Lombardi SJ has been appointed Chairman  of the “Joseph Ratzinger-Benedict XVI Vatican Foundation”.

Father Lombardi was appointed by Cardinal Pietro Parolin, Vatican Secretary of State.

The Ratzinger Foundation was founded by Pope Benedict XVI in 2010 with the aim to promote theology in the spirit of Joseph Ratzinger, which it achieves by funding scholarships and bursaries for students across the world.

It also promotes  formation activities, conferences, seminars and Theology training courses which are offered throughout the world thanks to the Foundation’s proceeds. These partly come from the royalties that derive from the sale of almost 100 volumes written by Joseph Ratzinger.
 ::snipping3::


Title: Re: Pope Benedict RESIGNING
Post by: grace-land on August 19, 2016, 06:59:00 PM
http://www.catholicnewsagency.com/news/benedict-xvis-students-to-discuss-spiritual-crisis-in-europe-at-annual-meeting-82816/

Benedict XVI's students to discuss spiritual crisis in Europe at annual meeting

Vatican City, Aug 19, 2016 / 06:04 am (CNA/EWTN News).- The annual meeting of Pope Emeritus Benedict XVI's former students will discuss Europe's spiritual crisis during their gathering later this month, according to the group's organizer.

The Ratzinger Schuelerkreis has gathered to discuss topics in theology and the life of the Church since 1978, shortly after their mentor was pulled from academia to become a bishop.

The theme of spiritual crisis in Europe was approved by Benedict himself, Fr. Stephan Horn told CNA.

Fr. Horn, a Salvatorian, was Joseph Ratzinger's academic assistant at the University of Regensburg from 1971 to 1977, and is now organizer of the Schuelerkreis meeting. This year the group will meet at Castel Gandolfo Aug. 26-28.
 ::snipping3::


Title: Re: Pope Benedict RESIGNING
Post by: grace-land on August 23, 2016, 08:30:28 PM
http://www.catholicherald.co.uk/news/2016/08/22/benedict-xvis-autobiography-to-be-translated-by-english-theologian/

Benedict XVI’s autobiography to be translated by English theologian
posted Monday, 22 Aug 2016

A theologian at St Mary’s University, Twickenham, is to translate Benedict XVI’s new autobiography.

Dr Jacob Phillips is programme director of the MA in Theology at St Mary’s University, Twickenham. He also teaches on Fundamental Theology at Allen Hall Seminary, London, and has taught at King’s College London, where he earned his PhD, and at other London universities.

A convert to the Faith – he was accepted into the Church in 2008 – he worships at St Etheldreda’s, Holborn, London.

Benedict XVI’s book, to be entitled Last Testament, is based on interviews with German journalist Peter Seewald.
 ::snipping3::
Last Testament follows the same format as two previous book-length interviews with Peter Seewald, Light of the World and Salt of the Earth.

Last month an Italian newspaper revealed that Benedict kept a diary throughout his papacy, but plans to destroy it even though he realises it would be “a golden opportunity” for historians.

Last Testament will be published by Bloomsbury in Britain and the US in November.


Title: Re: Pope Benedict RESIGNING
Post by: grace-land on August 24, 2016, 09:38:01 PM
https://cruxnow.com/vatican/2016/08/24/benedict-says-quit-couldnt-face-another-trip/

Benedict says he quit because he couldn’t face another trip
Inés San Martín  August 24, 2016

ROME- Ever since February 28, 2013, when emeritus Pope Benedict XVI unexpectedly, and in Latin, announced his resignation, theories regarding why became too numerous to count: scandals over leaked confidential documents, his health, an alleged “gay lobby” in the Vatican, and so on.

Benedict said at the time he was stepping down because he was 86 and lacked the strength to continue with his mission of leading an institution present in every corner of the world, with over 1.2 billion members.

In a recent interview he expanded on that explanation, adding more details. Among other things, he said that his March 2012 trip to Mexico and Cuba had taken such a toll that he knew he’d be incapable of making another grueling international trip. He says he agreed with his doctor it’d be better if he didn’t make such a demanding outing.

He had one looming: A July 2013 trip to Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, to lead millions of youth from around the world in a week-long festival known as World Youth Day in July 2013. Hence he saw it as his “duty” to resign from the papacy, sooner rather than later after his return from Mexico and Cuba.

That snippet was shared by the emeritus pope himself in an interview with Italian Elio Guerrero, author of the upcoming book “Servant of God and Humanity: The biography of Benedict XVI.” It’ll be released in Italian on August 30, and no date for an English publication has yet been announced.

The book includes not only a preface by Pope Francis, but also an interview Guerrero had with Benedict.
 ::snipping3::


Title: Re: Pope Benedict RESIGNING
Post by: grace-land on August 25, 2016, 10:19:24 PM
https://zenit.org/articles/feature-christmas-lists-teddy-bears-and-miracles-have-what-in-common-joseph-ratzinger/

FEATURE: A Walk Through the Life of Benedict XVI 
Christmas Lists, Teddy Bears, and Miracles Have What in Common? Joseph Ratzinger … Recent Pilgrimage Retraces His Life From Birth to Present
•August 25, 2016•Deborah Castellano Lubov
(https://zenit.org/wp-content/uploads/2016/08/tr..Copia-di-DSC_0481-413x275.jpg)
Inside Freising Cathedral, where Joseph Ratzinger was ordained a priest – Photo by Michael Hesemann

Ever wanted to have a better idea about what teddy bears, Christmas lists, and miracles meant to young Joseph Ratzinger? And if not before, are you curious now?

Special moments in the early life of Pope Benedict were the discoveries to find on an ‘Inside the Vatican’-run pilgrimage this summer that retraced the life of Benedict XVI throughout Bavaria and Rome, guided by well-known historian Michael Hesemann, the co-author with Georg Ratzinger of “My Brother, the Pope.”

Some of the meaningful places this intimate spiritual pilgrimage included were: the charming little town of Marktl am Inn, where little Joseph Ratzinger was born; Tittmoning, where he spent early years through about kindergarten; Freising, where he attended minor seminary and was ordained a priest 65 years ago; Traunstein, where he celebrated his first Holy Mass as priest; Munich, where he served as archbishop; Regensburg, where he taught; and Pentling, where he had designed a home where he believed he would eventually retire.
 ::snipping3::


Title: Re: Pope Benedict RESIGNING
Post by: grace-land on August 26, 2016, 08:19:50 PM
http://www.catholicnewsagency.com/news/in-rare-interview-benedict-xvi-names-his-favorite-saints-92453/

In rare interview, Benedict XVI names his favorite saints

Vatican City, Aug 26, 2016 / 03:02 am (CNA/EWTN News).- Since he resigned from the papacy over three years ago, Benedict XVI rarely gives interviews. In a recent exception, however, the former pontiff took the time to chat not only about his successor, but the saints who've accompanied him throughout his life.

In the interview, published Aug. 24 in Italian newspaper La Reppublica, Benedict said he has been serene and happy since his resignation, and that while there were “smaller and larger difficulties” in his pontificate, there were also “many graces” that came from the fact that he wasn’t alone.

“From the beginning I was conscious of my limits and I accepted, as I have always sought to do in my life, in a spirit of obedience,” he said.

“I realized that all I had to do I couldn’t do alone and so I was almost forced to put myself in the hands of God, to entrust myself to Jesus, to whom, as I gradually wrote my volume on him (Jesus of Nazareth), I felt bound by an old and ever deeper friendship.”
 ::snipping3::


Title: Re: Pope Benedict RESIGNING
Post by: grace-land on September 08, 2016, 08:41:19 PM
http://www.catholicnews.com/services/englishnews/2016/retired-pope-says-governance-wasnt-his-gift-but-francis-is-good-at-it.cfm

Retired pope says governance wasn't his gift, but Francis is good at it
By Cindy Wooden Catholic News Service
9.8.2016 6:10 AM ET

VATICAN CITY (CNS) -- While retired Pope Benedict XVI said organization and governance are not his strong suits, he also said, "I am unable to see myself as a failure."

In a book-length interview with the German author Peter Seewald, Pope Benedict said that when he resigned he had the "peace of someone who had overcome difficulty" and "could tranquilly pass the helm to the one who came next."

The new book, "Last Testament," will be released in English by Bloomsbury in November. The German and Italian editions were set for release Sept. 9, but some excerpts were published Sept. 8 by the Italian daily newspaper Corriere della Sera.

Pope Benedict insisted once again that he was not pressured by anyone or any event to resign and he did not feel he was running away from any problem.

"My weak point perhaps is a lack of resolve in governing and making decisions," he said. "Here, in reality, I am more a professor, one who reflects and meditates on spiritual questions. Practical governance was not my forte and this certainly was a weakness."
 ::snipping3::
http://www.ncregister.com/blog/edward-pentin/benedict-xvi-to-reveal-more-details-of-his-life-and-pontificate-in-new-book
Benedict XVI To Reveal More Details of His Life and Pontificate in New Book
by Edward Pentin  09/08/2016

https://cruxnow.com/analysis/2016/09/08/new-book-pope-benedict-xvi-exudes-rare-humility/
In new book, Pope Benedict XVI exudes a rare humility
John L. Allen Jr. Ines San Martin
September 8, 2016

https://www.ncronline.org/news/vatican/pope-benedict-speaks-i-do-not-see-myself-failure#.V9G4rxdc3mI.twitter
Pope Benedict speaks: 'I do not see myself as a failure'
by Joshua J. McElwee    |  Sep. 8, 2016


Title: Re: Pope Benedict RESIGNING
Post by: grace-land on September 12, 2016, 05:22:34 PM
http://www.catholicworldreport.com/Item/5045/benedict_the_brave_the_regensburg_address_ten_years_later.aspx

Benedict the Brave: The Regensburg Address Ten Years Later
September 12, 2016

Ten years ago Pope Benedict XVI took to the dais of the University of Regensburg’s Aula Magna to offer a few “memories and reflections.” The speech, which became widely known simply as Regensburg, has long been dismissed as an infamous gaffe in a generally misunderstood pontificate; it was leveled as incendiary and undiplomatic in solemn rebukes from leaders like Jacques Chirac; it sparked firebombings and effigies; death threats from the Mujahideen Army against the pontiff; and generally did little to enhance Benedict’s reputation. But how much of Regensburg was actually read, understood, and properly digested, and what was its overall intention?

Contrary to the ensuing censure of the Pope and his speech, the 79-year-old pontiff knew exactly what he was doing. “As I said at the time,” stated Fr. James V. Schall, SJ about its lasting legacy, “this address is one of the world's most penetrating analysis ever made of intelligence and the consequences of the willful refusal to face its truth.” If really taken to heart, Regensburg at one point may have been the touchstone for a more truthful world—and still might be, a decade later.
 ::snipping3::
http://www.catholicworldreport.com/Item/4686/regensburg_revisited_ten_years_later_a_west_still_in_denial.aspx
Regensburg Revisited: Ten Years Later, A West Still in Denial
April 04, 2016 

https://cruxnow.com/analysis/2016/09/12/anniversary-can-finally-catch-benedicts-point-regensburg/
On anniversary, can we finally catch Benedict’s point at Regensburg?
John L. Allen Jr.   September 12, 2016


Title: Re: Pope Benedict RESIGNING
Post by: grace-land on September 12, 2016, 05:28:03 PM
https://cnstopstories.com/2016/09/09/retired-pope-says-aging-brings-intense-prayer-awareness-of-judgment/

Retired pope says aging brings intense prayer, awareness of judgment
Posted on September 9, 2016
By Cindy Wooden
Catholic News Service

VATICAN CITY (CNS) — As he prays in his house in the Vatican Gardens and, especially, as he ages, retired Pope Benedict XVI said he finds many Scripture passages “more challenging in their greatness and gravity.”

Retirement has given the 89-year-old Pope Benedict what he describes as the gift of silence to enter more deeply into prayer, especially with the Psalms and the writings of early church theologians, but the inevitable approach of death also makes his failings and God’s judgment a more pressing concern, he said.

“Despite all the confidence I have that the loving God cannot forsake me, the closer you come to his face, the more intensely you feel how much you have done wrong,” the retired pope told Peter Seewald, a German writer.
 ::snipping3::


Title: Re: Pope Benedict RESIGNING
Post by: grace-land on October 18, 2016, 05:56:04 PM
http://www.news.va/en/news/2016-ratzinger-prize-winners-announced

2016 Ratzinger Prize winners announced
2016-10-18 Vatican Radio
(http://media02.radiovaticana.va/photo/2014/06/17/1527420_LancioGrande.jpg)
(Vatican Radio) The winners of the 2016 Ratzinger Prize have been announed as Inos Biffi and Ioannis Kourempeles.

Mgr. Biffi, a professor, theologian and liturgist of international renown, who has also authored hundreds of books and essays, was awarded the prize for his Opera Omnia, a collection of his writings, most of which are on theology and medieval philosophy. Twenty volumes have already been published, while the rest are currently in the preparation phase. The other winner is Ioannis Kourempeles of the Faculty of Theology in Thessaloniki, Greece. A member of the Orthodox Church, he is associate professor in the Department of Theology at the Aristotle University of Thessaloniki.
 ::snipping3::


Title: Re: Pope Benedict RESIGNING
Post by: grace-land on November 25, 2016, 09:54:51 PM
http://www.ncregister.com/blog/edward-pentin/pope-emeritus-benedict-xvi-reflects-on-the-last-things

Nov. 25, 2016
Pope Emeritus Benedict XVI Reflects on the Last Things
In an extract from his latest book-interview, 'Last Testament', Benedict XVI reflects on death, God's judgment, and the afterlife.
Edward Pentin
(http://www.ncregister.com/images/uploads/Screen_Shot_2016-11-25_at_13.21.33-1.png)
As the Church enters the liturgical season of Advent, a time of expectation and anticipation of Christ’s return in glory, it’s perhaps timely to publish here for the first time Pope Emeritus Benedict XVI's recent thoughts on the Last Things.

In this extract from the new book, Last Testament – In His Own Words — Pope Benedict XVI With Peter Seewald, the Pope Emeritus discusses his approach to death, judgment and how close he feels to Jesus as he reaches the end of his earthly life.

He also reflects on the “dark night” of the soul, dealing with the problem of evil, and his expectations of the life to come.
 ::snipping3::


Title: Re: Pope Benedict RESIGNING
Post by: grace-land on November 26, 2016, 08:16:38 PM
http://en.radiovaticana.va/news/2016/11/26/pope_addresses_2016_ratzinger_prize_winners/1275024

Pope addresses 2016 Ratzinger Prize winners
26/11/2016 13:12
(http://media02.radiovaticana.va/photo/2016/11/19/AFP6004742_LancioGrande.jpg)
Pope Francis and Pope emeritus Benedict XVI together at the Vatican 19 Nov 2016.

(Vatican Radio) Pope Francis on Saturday morning addressed the winners of the 2016 Ratzinger Prize, Msgr Inos Biffi and Ioannis Kourempeles, in the Vatican’s Clementine Hall.

Awarded by the Joseph Ratzinger-Benedict XVI Vatican Foundation, the Ratzinger Prize is given as a sign of the Church’s gratitude to scholars and professors who have stood out for their scientific research in the theological field.

Msgr Biffi, a professor, and internationally renowned theologian and liturgist, was awarded the prize for his Opera Omnia, a collection of his writings, most of which are on theology and medieval philosophy.

The other winner, Prof Kourempeles is a member of the Orthodox Church, is associate professor in the Department of Theology at the Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, Greece.

In his address to the winners, Pope Francis began by expressing “great affection” and “gratitude” for Pope Emeritus Benedict XVI, as he “continues to accompany us even now in his prayer.”

“The depth of Joseph Ratzinger’s thought, firmly founded upon Scripture and the [Church] Fathers, and always nourished by faith and prayer, helps us to remain open to the horizons of eternity, thus giving meaning even to our hopes and our human responsibilities,” the Holy Father said.

The Pope spoke of Benedict XVI’s richness in “thought and magisterium,  which knew how to center on the essential reference points of our Christian life, the person of Jesus Christ, charity, hope, faith.  And the whole Church will be forever grateful.”
 ::snipping3::


Title: Re: Pope Benedict RESIGNING
Post by: grace-land on December 19, 2016, 05:59:36 PM
Photos at the link

http://www.catholicnewsagency.com/news/benedict-xvi-mother-angelica-was-a-great-woman-91924/

Benedict XVI: Mother Angelica was 'a great woman'

Vatican City, Dec 18, 2016 / 01:09 pm (CNA/EWTN News).- Pope emeritus Benedict XVI praised the founder of the EWTN Global Catholic Network on Thursday.

“Mother Angelica was a great woman, very brave,” he said Dec. 15.

He had greeted the editorial staff of the EWTN-backed Italian-language news agency ACI Stampa, who met him to give him a Christmas card.

Mother Angelica passed away on Easter Sunday 2016 at the age of 92.

In March, Benedict XVI had a special response to the timing of her death: “It’s a gift,” he said, his personal secretary Archbishop Georg Ganswein told CNA.

Soon after the nun’s March 27 death, at a March 30 general audience Pope Francis encountered members of EWTN’s Rome Bureau who carried a framed photo of Mother Angelica. The Pope saw the image and blessed it. Pointing to the sky, he said “she’s in heaven.”
 ::snipping3::


Title: Re: Pope Benedict RESIGNING
Post by: grace-land on January 13, 2017, 09:23:12 PM
http://www.catholicworldreport.com/Item/5342/journalist_peter_seewald_pope_benedict_is_one_of_the_most_misunderstood_personalities_of_our_time.aspx

Journalist Peter Seewald: Pope Benedict is “one of the most misunderstood personalities of our time”
January 12, 2017 

The German journalist reflects on his latest book-length interview with Pope Emeritus Benedict XVI, whom he considers among history’s most significant popes.

It is well-known that Pope Francis regularly grants interviews to various media outlets, and has done so since the earliest days of his papacy. As a result, it seems as if each successive interview is received with less fanfare, and the words of the Holy Father are watched with breath a little less bated.

His predecessor, Pope Emeritus Benedict XVI, was never one to give interviews so frequently. However, over the last 25 years, he has granted four book-length interviews to German journalist Peter Seewald—Salt of the Earth, God and the World, Light of the World, and now Last Testament: In His Own Words (Bloomsbury, 2016). This most recent (and perhaps final) installment in the series of interviews, Last Testament contains many insights into the life and personality of Joseph Ratzinger.
 ::snipping3::


Title: Re: Pope Benedict RESIGNING
Post by: grace-land on February 10, 2017, 09:26:28 PM
https://zenit.org/articles/its-good-to-have-the-pope-emeritus-who-prays-for-the-church-and-for-his-successor-says-father-lombardi/

It’s Good to Have the Pope Emeritus, Who Prays for the Church and for His Successor,’ Says Father Lombardi
February 10, 2017

“Every time we see images of Pope Francis and his predecessor together, it is a great joy for all and a good example of union in the Church,” said Father Federico Lombardi, President of the Joseph Ratzinger-Benedict XVI Vatican Foundation.

Vatican Radio interviewed the former Director of the Holy See Press Office, four years after Benedict XVI’s surprising gesture of renouncing the Petrine ministry, which happened on February 11, 2013.

“The way in which he has lived and lives these years corresponds to what he told us, namely, to live in prayer, in retirement, from a spiritual point of view and with extreme discretion, his service of accompaniment in prayer of the life of the Church and also of solidarity with his Successor precisely in his responsibility. This is what is happening, in full serenity,” explained Father Lombardi regarding Benedict.

The former Director of the Press Office commented that it is “truly very good to have the Pope Emeritus who prays for the Church and for his successor. It is a presence that we feel, we know that he is there, even if we do not see him often; when we see him we are all very happy because we love him.”

Father Lombardi, who has met Benedict XVI on several occasions in the last months, says that he found him “perfect from the point of view of lucidity, of spiritual presence, mental state,” hence, it is a real pleasure to be with him.”
 ::snipping3::


Title: Re: Pope Benedict RESIGNING
Post by: grace-land on February 11, 2017, 11:41:02 AM
February 11, 2017 Tweets
https://twitter.com/roccopalmo

Rocco Palmo ‏@roccopalmo  · 6h  6 hours ago 
Four years ago at this hour, Benedict XVI announced his intent to resign the papacy on 28 Feb 2013: http://bit.ly/XFk4XR

(https://pbs.twimg.com/media/C4YbMUIXUAEOXyg.jpg)


Title: Re: Pope Benedict RESIGNING
Post by: grace-land on February 11, 2017, 11:48:22 AM
https://cruxnow.com/vatican/2017/02/11/aide-says-benedict-perfect-mental-spiritual-health/

Aide says Benedict in perfect ‘mental and spiritual’ health
Inés San Martín   February 11, 2017
(https://cruxnow.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/01/b9cb14357e9eff70f2be2ab96bc188bb-690x450.jpeg)
Pope Francis, right, hugs Pope Emeritus Benedict XVI in the former Convent Mater Ecclesiae at the Vatican, Saturday, Nov. 19, 2016. After the basilica ceremony, the new cardinals and Pope Francis took two mini buses to the monastery on Vatican grounds where Benedict lives to greet the emeritus pontiff. (Credit: L'Osservatore Romano/pool photo via AP.)

ROME-Four years after he announced his resignation on Feb. 11, 2013, emeritus Pope Benedict XVI is “in perfect mental and spiritual” health, according to his former spokesman, who remains a close collaborator.

Father Federico Lombardi, currently president of the Vatican Foundation Joseph Ratzinger-Benedict XVI, told Vatican Radio that even though the pope emeritus remains perfectly lucid, “his physical strength is debilitating little by little.”

There are no particular illnesses, Lombardi said, but “it’s noticeable that fragility increases with age. Whatever the case, he’s on foot, walking around the house.”

Speaking to the Italian TV outlet Tg2000, Lombardi said that since he was close to Benedict in the months previous to his resignation, it was clear that he was feeling at the limits of his possibilities to carry out his role.
 ::snipping3::


Title: Re: Pope Benedict RESIGNING
Post by: grace-land on February 28, 2017, 10:11:10 PM
https://zenit.org/articles/february-28-marks-the-fourth-anniversary-of-benedict-xvis-renunciation/

February 28 Marks the Fourth Anniversary of Benedict XVI’s Renunciation 
February 27, 2017

A sun of a precocious spring illuminated St. Peter’s Square crowded, as on great occasions, on that February 28, 2013. It was a multitude of faithful that rushed to say their goodbyes to Pope Benedict XVI. The wave of affection overwhelmed the German Pontiff, who was visibly moved.

However, the strong sentiments remained impressed also on the spirit of the faithful present in the Square. It is difficult to forget the effect of that historic flight to Castel Gandolfo of the helicopter with the resigning Pope on board, above a carpet of arms waving to greet him.

Historic moments, whose memory penetrates the heart of those who lived it. As Benedict XVI’s words penetrated the heart, which he addressed from the balcony of the Papal Apartment of Castel Gandolfo, in the afternoon of February 28, 2013, his last appearance in public as Supreme Pontiff.

I am simply a pilgrim who begins the last stage of his pilgrimage on this earth. However, with my heart, with my love, with my prayer, with my reflection, with all my interior strength I still want to work for the common good and the good of the Church and of humanity. And I feel very supported by your good wishes. Let us go forward together with the Lord for the good of the Church and of the world. Thank you, and now I impart to you with all my heart my Blessing,” he said.
 ::snipping3::


Title: Re: Pope Benedict RESIGNING
Post by: grace-land on March 02, 2017, 08:40:09 PM
http://www.catholicnewsagency.com/news/in-rome-a-new-generation-of-benedict-xvi-scholars-is-on-the-rise-58884/

In Rome, a new generation of Benedict XVI scholars is on the rise
By Andrea Gagliarducci
(http://www.catholicnewsagency.com/images/size340/Pope_Benedict_XVI_on_Aug_28_2010_Credit_LOsservatore_Romano_CNA_2.jpg)
Rome, Italy, Mar 2, 2017 / 12:04 am (CNA/EWTN News).- The theological legacy of Benedict XVI continues, four years after his pontificate came to an end.

A group of graduate students has gathered around the Ratzinger Foundation to further their studies and discussions on the thought of the former Pope, cardinal, and theology professor.
 
 Professor Pierluca Azzaro, a collaborator of the Ratzinger Foundation who translated Ratzinger’s complete works into Italian, told CNA these students reflect “the increasing interest toward Joseph Ratzinger’s theology.”

In one gathering, the students heard Father Stephan Horn, the coordinator of the Ratzinger Schuelerkreis, the circle of Joseph Ratzinger’s former students.

Azzaro summed up Fr. Horn’s remarks: “Joseph Ratzinger never wanted to assert himself and his ideas. He rather wanted to open people’s gaze to the Church.”

The priest stressed Benedict XVI’s own identity as a priest and his care for the communication of the faith.

Besides the gathering with Fr. Horn, the students have held an introductory meeting and have met with Father Federico Lombardi, president of the Ratzinger Foundation and former Vatican spokesperson.
 ::snipping3::
Since 2010, the foundation has awarded its Ratzinger Prize to noted theologians. Some compare the honor to the Nobel Prize of Theology.


Title: Re: Pope Benedict RESIGNING
Post by: grace-land on March 19, 2017, 08:00:02 PM
https://cruxnow.com/vatican/2017/03/19/key-aide-pope-benedict-approaches-90-hes-fine/?platform=hootsuite

Key aide to Pope Benedict: As he approaches 90, he’s fine
March 19, 2017

ROME - Emeritus Pope Benedict XVI turns 90 next month, but according to his closest aide, his advanced age hasn’t yet created any truly serious health challenges aside from a basic problem with walking without assistance.

“Pope Benedict is in good shape,” said German Archbishop Georg Gänswein, the Prefect of the Papal Household for Pope Francis and also private secretary to Pope Benedict.

“What bothers him most are his legs,” Gänswein said, “so he uses a walker for help, and he gets along very well.”

Gänswein made the comments in a brief interview with Vatican Radio.

“Otherwise, he’s quite clear in his head, and quite bright,” he said. “He participates in everything. He reads, he prays, he listens to music, and he has visitors.”
 ::snipping3::


Title: Re: Pope Benedict RESIGNING
Post by: grace-land on March 31, 2017, 09:12:50 PM
https://zenit.org/articles/ratzinger-foundation-a-book-for-the-pope-emeritus-90-years/

Ratzinger Foundation: A Book for the Pope Emeritus’ 90 Years 
March 31, 2017

On the occasion of the Pope Emeritus Benedict XVI’s 90th birthday (April 16, 2017), the Joseph Ratzinger-Benedict XVI Vatican Foundation is publishing the book Cooperatores Veritatis, which brings together the essays of 13 researchers who received the Ratzinger Prize since 2011, stated a press release of the Foundation.

The presentation will take place on April 6 at the Augustinianum Patristic Institute in Rome, with the participation of Cardinal Kurt Koch, President of the Pontifical Council for Promoting Christian Unity and member of the Foundation’s Scientific Committee, as well as Father Federico Lombardi, SJ, the Foundation’s President, Father Giuseppe Caruso, Director of the Augustinianum and Father Giuseppe Costa, Director of the Librairie Editrice Vaticana (LEV), one of the publishers of the work.

In the introduction, Father Lombardi stresses that the book “is an original way of bringing together an international group of known researchers, who have shared their points of view on Joseph Ratzinger’s thought.”
 ::snipping3::


Title: Re: Pope Benedict RESIGNING
Post by: grace-land on March 31, 2017, 09:19:09 PM
http://www.catholicworldreport.com/Item/5532/cardinal_sarahs_address_on_10th_anniversary_of_summorum_pontificum.aspx

Cardinal Sarah's Address on 10th Anniversary of "Summorum Pontificum"
March 31, 2017
The exclusive English translation of the message sent by the Prefect of the Congregation for Divine Worship and the Discipline of the Sacraments to the Colloquium “The Source of the Future”

Cardinal Robert Sarah
(http://www.catholicworldreport.com/Content/Site140/Articles/03_01_2017/5532cardinalsar_00000005392.jpg)
(Images: www.facebook.com/pg/Sacraliturgia2013)

Colloquium “The Source of the Future” (“Quelle der Zukunft”)
on the occasion of the 10th anniversary of the publication
of the Motu proprio Summorum Pontificum by Pope Benedict XVI

March 29 – April 1, 2017
Herzogenrath, near Aachen (Germany)
 

Introductory Message
 ::snipping3::


Title: Re: Pope Benedict RESIGNING
Post by: grace-land on April 01, 2017, 10:33:07 PM
Photos at the link

http://www.catholicnewsagency.com/news/benedict-xvi-tells-ewtn-thank-you-for-your-work-40153/

Benedict XVI tells EWTN: 'Thank you for your work'
By Elise Harris

Vatican City, Mar 31, 2017 / 04:42 pm (CNA/EWTN News).- Members of EWTN’s Rome Bureau on Friday met Benedict XVI in the Vatican Gardens to explain their work and thank him for his service to the Church, while he in turn thanked them for their efforts.

“Thank you for your work,” the emeritus Pope said March 31 to the six persons present at the encounter, who represented the various programs produced at the bureau.
 ::snipping3::
The team met Benedict in the Vatican Gardens at 4:30 in the afternoon, when the emeritus Pope prays his daily rosary. He was accompanied by Archbishop Georg Ganswein, prefect of the papal household.

After finishing his prayer, Benedict removed his hat and stood up to greet the team. 

Benedict was clear and alert, and interested in each person as they approched him.

Leading the delegation, Holdren gave a brief introduction to the organization; the emeritus Pope marvelled at the size of the bureau.

Benedict greeted each member of the group individually, learning about their families and their work.

Holdren gave the Bavarian personal letters from some of those present and their families. He in turn offered each of them  a medal and commemorative cards of his 2012 visit to Lebanon, the last he took as Roman Pontiff.

He then gave the group his blessing and departed for his residence in the Vatican's Mater Ecclesiae monastery.

The audience was granted to mark the one-year anniversary of the March 27, 2016 death of Mother Angelica, foundress of EWTN.
 ::snipping3::


Title: Re: Pope Benedict RESIGNING
Post by: grace-land on April 07, 2017, 09:40:09 PM
http://www.news.va/en/news/cooperatores-veritatis-a-bithday-gift-to-the-pope

Cooperatores veritatis: a bithday gift to the Pope emeritus
2017-04-06 Vatican Radio
(http://media02.radiovaticana.va/photo/2017/04/05/RV24600_LancioGrande.jpg)
(Vatican Radio) Pope-emeritus Benedict XVI turns 90 years of age on April 16th. To mark the occasion the Vatican Foundation Joseph Ratzinger – Benedict XVI has edited a special festschrift volume of essays by Ratzinger Prize-winning theologians, which was presented on Thursday afternoon at the Augustinianum Patristic Institute of Rome.

Titled Cooperatores veritatis: Tributes to Pope emeritus Benedict XVI on his 90th Birthday, assembled under the editorship of Pierluca Azzaro and Fr. Federico Lombardi, SJ and published by the Vatican Publishing House, the volume is at once a testament to the profound influence of the thought of the Pope emeritus across intellectual disciplines, and a genuine contribution to scholarship and intellectual endeavour.

Its main title, Cooperatores veritatis is taken from Pope emeritus Benedict XVI’s episcopal motto.

In remarks to Vatican Radio ahead of the presentation, the President of the Ratzinger Foundation, Fr. Federico Lombardi SJ, explained that the choice of the motto as the volume’s main title encapsulates the life, work, and legacy of the man who became the 264th Successor to St. Peter. “It is a[n episcopal] motto that came from his whole life prior [to consecration as a bishop], and represented his identity, his commitment as a theologian and as a servant of theology in the Church,” Fr. Lombardi said.
 ::snipping3::
https://zenit.org/articles/for-benedict-xvis-90th-birthday-a-literary-event-in-rome/
For Benedict XVI’s 90th Birthday, a Literary Event in Rome 
Book “Cooperatores Veritats” Is Presented in Honor of the Pope Emeritus
April 7, 2017

http://www.catholicnews.com/services/englishnews/2017/birthday-book-scholars-offer-pope-benedict-traditional-german-tribute.cfm
Birthday book: Scholars offer Pope Benedict traditional German tribute
By Carol Glatz Catholic News Service
4.6.2017 12:18 PM ET


Title: Re: Pope Benedict RESIGNING
Post by: grace-land on April 07, 2017, 09:48:32 PM
https://cruxnow.com/global-church/2017/04/07/new-book-shows-interest-pope-benedict-xvi-stay/

New book shows interest in Pope Benedict XVI is here to stay
Claire Giangravè   April 7, 2017

ROME - Priests and theologians, bishops and ambassadors, nuns and scholars braved a spring deluge on April 6 to attend the presentation of a new book dedicated to the life’s work of Pope Emeritus Benedict XVI at the Institutum Patristicum Augustinianum of Rome.

Interest in the retired pope shows no sign of slowing down as his essential contributions to the Church and theology continue to be relevant today.

Three new biographies on the German pontiff have been published in Italy this week alone. Three collections of essays by the pope emeritus are also in the works. Italy’s public television, Rai, will air two one-hour documentaries on Benedict celebrating his life.

Enthusiasm over the figure of Benedict XVI is not limited to Italy. All over the world symposiums, meetings and events take place focusing on the pope’s legacy.

At the Augustinianum, the Vatican publishing house and the Joseph Ratzinger-Benedict XVI Vatican Foundation unveiled Cooperatores Veritatis (Co-workers of the truth), a collection of essays by all 13 winners of the Ratzinger prize analyzing the fundamental contributions by Benedict’s life work.
 ::snipping3::


Title: Re: Pope Benedict RESIGNING
Post by: grace-land on April 07, 2017, 09:52:22 PM
http://www.thenews.pl/1/11/Artykul/301592,Poland-to-host-conference-for-exPopes-90th-birthday

Poland to host conference for ex-Pope's 90th birthday
07.04.2017 08:12

The Polish parliament and Catholic bishops will hold an international conference to mark the 90th birthday of retired Pope Benedict XVI on 19 April.

The conference entitled “The concept of the State in the view of Pope Benedict XVI's teachings” is “unusually current”, according to Deputy Speaker Ryszard Terlecki, who extended an invitation to the event in parliament on Thursday.

The retired Pope's teachings say that the Catholic Church and state institutions can co-exist without limiting social, political and cultural relationships, Terlecki said.

He added that faith should infiltrate secular institutions.
 ::snipping3::


Title: Re: Pope Benedict RESIGNING
Post by: grace-land on April 13, 2017, 10:07:08 PM
http://www.ncregister.com/blog/edward-pentin/archbishop-gaenswein-benedict-xvi-wont-enter-amoris-laetitia-controversy

Apr. 12, 2017
Archbishop Gänswein: Benedict XVI Won’t Enter ‘Amoris Laetitia’ Controversy

Edward Pentin

Pope Emeritus Benedict XVI, who turns 90 on Easter Sunday, has read Amoris Laetitia thoroughly, taken note of the controversies surrounding the document and how it is implemented, but is not commenting on it in any way.

This is according to Benedict’s personal secretary, Archbishop Georg Gänswein who, in an April 12 interview with the Italian daily La Repubblica, said the former pope is well aware of contrasts made between him and Pope Francis, but does not let them provoke him, and has “no intention of entering controversies that feel far away from him."

Benedict XVI, he said, is “serene, quiet and in a good mood,” doing only those things that his strength allows.
 ::snipping3::


Title: Re: Pope Benedict RESIGNING
Post by: grace-land on April 14, 2017, 05:17:50 PM
https://zenit.org/
(https://zenit.org/wp-content/uploads/2016/03/ben-400x266.jpg)
Photo Archivo, Copyright Osservatore Romano

http://www.lastampa.it/2017/04/14/vaticaninsider/eng/the-vatican/francis-visited-benedict-xvi-for-easter-greetings-TxeireToWlEowyP41SVPWM/pagina.html
Francis visited Benedict XVI for Easter greetings
Pubblicato il  14/04/2017

Yesterday afternoon, Wednesday, April 12, Pope Francis went to the "Mater Ecclesiae" monastery to wish a Happy Easter to Pope Emeritus Benedict XVI.  ::snipping3:: The news was announced by the Vatican press office, which points out the distinct character of this year’s visit to the Pope emeritus as next Sunday, April 16th, marks Benedict’s ninetieth birthday. A significant event which has seen an increase in number of editorial publications in his honor. Furthermore - his private secretary, monsignor Georg Ganswein has informed a few days ago – that upon the Pope emeritus’ desire, there will be a "Bavarian" style party on Easter Monday.


Title: Re: Pope Benedict RESIGNING
Post by: grace-land on April 15, 2017, 08:47:52 PM
https://twitter.com/EdwardPentin?ref_src=twsrc%5Egoogle%7Ctwcamp%5Eserp%7Ctwgr%5Eauthor
(https://pbs.twimg.com/media/C9fgR6oXoAA9cut.jpg:thumb)
Archbishop Georg Gänswein, Prefect of the Pontifical Household and Personal Secretary to Pope Emeritus Benedict XVI. (Daniel Ibanez)

http://www.ncregister.com/daily-news/archbishop-gaenswein-at-90-benedict-xvi-remains-a-man-of-joy

Vatican  |  Apr. 15, 2017
Archbishop Gänswein: At 90, Benedict XVI Remains a Man of Joy

Full transcript of the interview the Personal Secretary to the Pope Emeritus granted to EWTN Germany, to mark the Pope Emeritus’ 90th birthday on Easter Sunday.

Martin Rothweiler


Title: Re: Pope Benedict RESIGNING
Post by: grace-land on April 17, 2017, 09:33:28 PM
Happy 90th Birthday, Pope Benedict!   :smt113

Benedict XVI shares a 90th birthday beer with family and friends
John L. Allen Jr.   April 17, 2017

Emeritus Pope Benedict XVI actually turned 90 years old on Sunday, but because the day was Easter, his closest aide Archbishop George Gänswein announced that a “modest” celebration would be held today instead, the day that Italians observe as Pasquetta, meaning the Monday after Easter.

What “modest” means for a retired pope living on Vatican grounds, however, is a bit different than for the rest of us.

Benedict XVI passed the day in the company of his beloved 93-year-old brother, Monsignor Georg Ratzinger, as well as a small delegation from his native Bavaria in southern Germany. Among other things, the party enjoyed some beer and pretzels, both considered staples of Bavarian cuisine.
 ::snipping3::


Title: Re: Pope Benedict RESIGNING
Post by: grace-land on April 17, 2017, 09:54:50 PM
Birthday party photos at the links

https://twitter.com/EdwardPentin?ref_src=twsrc%5Egoogle%7Ctwcamp%5Eserp%7Ctwgr%5Eauthor

https://twitter.com/roccopalmo

https://twitter.com/FatherRosica


Title: Re: Pope Benedict RESIGNING
Post by: grace-land on April 17, 2017, 10:04:42 PM
Video at the link

http://www.romereports.com/2017/04/18/pope-benedict-xvi-s-unseen-photos-released-for-his-90th-birthday

Pope Benedict XVI's unseen photos released for his 90th birthday
2017-04-16

This book published in Italy gives pope emeritus admirers an opportunity to see unpublished images of Pope Benedict XVI for the first time.
 ::snipping3::
On the occasion of his 90th birthday, these images and many others have been published in the book "Immagini di una vita", in English, "Images of a life.”

Presently, it is only available in Italian, but it has already attracted the attention of publishers in other languages.

It also includes this recent photo, in which he jokes with some of his students about his mobility problems.


Title: Re: Pope Benedict RESIGNING
Post by: grace-land on April 17, 2017, 10:18:12 PM
http://www.catholicnewsagency.com/news/benedict-xvis-90-years-i-am-grateful-to-god-27868/

Benedict XVI's 90 years: 'I am grateful to God'

Vatican City, Apr 17, 2017 / 03:24 pm (CNA/EWTN News).- At his birthday party on Monday, Pope Emeritus Benedict XVI told his guests that “My heart is full of gratitude for the 90 years which the good God has given me.”

The April 17 gathering at the Vatican's Mater Ecclesiae Monastery was held in observance of Benedict's 90th birthday, which fell on Easter Sunday, the day prior.

Some 50 guests from his homeland of Bavaria were present, including his elder brother, Fr. Georg Ratzinger.
 ::snipping3::


Title: Re: Pope Benedict RESIGNING
Post by: grace-land on April 19, 2017, 10:08:57 PM
https://twitter.com/EdwardPentin?ref_src=twsrc%5Egoogle%7Ctwcamp%5Eserp%7Ctwgr%5Eauthor

Edward Pentin Retweeted 

Pope news‏ @Pope_news · 18h  18 hours ago 
Benedict received a delegation from the Diocese of Munich and Freising on 18th April led by Cardinal Marx
(https://pbs.twimg.com/media/C9w5CjBWAAAg78z.jpg)


Title: Re: Pope Benedict RESIGNING
Post by: grace-land on April 20, 2017, 09:52:37 PM
https://zenit.org/articles/for-pope-benedict-xvis-90th-birthday-a-conference-in-warsaw/

For Pope Benedict XVI’s 90th Birthday, a Conference in Warsaw 
Benedict XVI, Pope Francis Addressed Letters to Its Participants, Who Included Cardinal Müller and Fr. Lombardi
April 20, 2017
(https://zenit.org/wp-content/uploads/2017/04/unnamed-13-400x266.jpg)
Photo: E. Bartkiewicz

“A State based on values is a value”—this was emphasized by the participants at a Conference on the concept of the State in the perspective of teaching J. Ratzinger / Benedict XVI. The event was organized by the Vatican’s Joseph Ratzinger Foundation, the Polish Bishops’ Conference, and the Sejm of the Republic of Poland. The meeting was held on April 19, 2017.

The conference in Warsaw dedicated to Benedict XVI was opened by Archbishop Stanisław Gądecki, President of the Polish Bishops’ Conference. In his speech, he emphasized that, according to the teaching of Cardinal Ratzinger, the State’s action should be subordinate to the law. He added that the main task of politicians is to serve the law and to fight against injustice.

“Man does not exist by the will of the state, but the State exists because man wills it,” stressed Card. Gerhard Müller, who was one of the special guests of the conference. The Prefect of the Congregation for the Doctrine of the Faith, speaking about the relationship between the Church and the State, pointed out that the dignity of man is always the limit of public authority. He said that a State’s true sovereignty is in its willingness to serve the common good of all its citizens, and that Christianity’s cultural heritage is the best protection against totalitarian ideologies.
 ::snipping3::


Title: Re: Pope Benedict RESIGNING
Post by: grace-land on May 01, 2017, 09:05:13 PM
http://www.ncregister.com/blog/mazurczak/benedict-xvi-warns-of-dangerous-situation-with-radical-atheism-and-radical

May. 1, 2017
Benedict XVI Warns of ‘Dangerous Situation’ With Radical Atheism and Radical Islam

In a new message addressed to a conference sponsored by Poland’s president, Benedict warns this contrast ‘creates a dangerous situation for our age.’

Filip Mazurczak

Pope Emeritus Benedict discussed the joint perils posed by radical Islam and radical atheistic secularism in a message he sent to a conference held April 19 in Warsaw, Poland, on the topic of his thinking about the concept of the state, held to coincide with his 90th birthday. Benedict’s comments were delivered to the conference by Archbishop Salvatore Pennacchio, papal nuncio to Poland.

Here is the text of the pope emeritus’ comments, which were made in Polish and translated for the Register:
 ::snipping3::


Title: Re: Pope Benedict RESIGNING
Post by: grace-land on June 17, 2017, 10:40:36 PM
https://zenit.org/articles/i-am-here-to-bring-the-greetings-of-pope-benedict/

FEATURE: ‘I Am Here to Bring the Greetings of Pope Benedict’ 
Archbishop Gänswein and Fr. Lombardi Present the Book ‘Joseph Ratinger-Benedict XVI. Pictures of a Life’
June 15, 2017

‘I am here to bring the greetings of Pope Benedict.’

Archbishop Georg Gänswein, Prefect of the Pontifical House, and private secretary to Benedict XVI, announced this during his remarks at the presentation of the book “BENEDETTO XVI IMMAGINI DI UNA VITA” (“Joseph Ratzinger-Benedict XVI. Pictures of a Life”), published by San Paolo, which took place yesterday, Wednesday 14 June 2017, at the Camera dei Deputati in Rome.

The volume was written by Maria Giuseppina Buonanno and Luca Caruso on the occasion of the 90th birthday of Joseph Ratzinger and includes many images throughout his life, starting from his earliest years up until the 65th-anniversary of the priestly ordination of the Pope Emeritus on June 29, 2016.
 ::snipping3::


Title: Re: Pope Benedict RESIGNING
Post by: grace-land on July 16, 2017, 05:40:51 PM
https://onepeterfive.com/pope-benedicts-message-funeral-cardinal-meisner-lord-not-abandon-church/

Pope Benedict’s Message at Funeral of Cardinal Meisner: “The Lord Does Not Abandon His Church”
Steve Skojec    July 15, 2017

We reported last week on the death of Cardinal Joachim Meisner of Germany, Archbishop Emeritus of Cologne and one of the four so-called “dubia cardinals”. Dr. Maike Hickson also shared a touching memorial of Meisner, who by all accounts was beloved by all who knew him. In a report on the German cardinal written last year, Hickson also noted his closeness to Pope Benedict XVI, and his role in the election of Cardinal Joseph Ratzinger to the office of the papacy in 2005, in opposition to the wishes of the so-called “Sankt Gallen Mafia,” who were reported to have desired the election of Cardinal Jorge Mario Bergoglio at that time.

Today, Saturday, July 15, 2017, the funeral Mass for Cardinal Meisner was offered in Cologne Cathedral. Pope Francis, who was not present, had a message read to those gathered by the Apostolic Nuncio to Germany, Archbishop Nikola Eterović. Then, in what has been characterized as a surprise — particularly considering his usual silence on matters facing the Church — a message from the Pope Emeritus himself was read by his Personal Secretary, Archbishop Georg Gänswein, who also serves as Prefect of the Papal Household for Pope Francis.

When one reads the following message — particularly that moment where the Pope Emeritus speaks of how Meisner “learned to let go and to live out of a deep conviction that the Lord does not abandon His Church, even if the boat has taken on so much water as to be on the verge of capsizing,” one cannot help but see in it a possible reflection on his own choice to step away from the papacy, and the crisis that even now engulfs the Church in his absence. This message, of course, of the Lord not abandoning His Church, cannot be read in isolation from the somewhat cryptic message the Pope Emeritus gave the five new cardinals at the ordinary public consistory last month: “The Lord wins in the end.” It would appear this is a theme very much on the mind of the former pontiff in recent days.

Below we provide the full text of Pope Benedict’s message on the occasion of the funeral of Cardinal Joachim Meisner, graciously translated by 1P5’s Matthew Karmel.
 ::snipping3::


Title: Re: Pope Benedict RESIGNING
Post by: grace-land on August 31, 2017, 08:19:25 PM
http://www.catholicnewsagency.com/news/heres-what-benedict-xvis-former-students-will-discuss-next-month-82572/

Here's what Benedict XVI's former students will discuss next month
By Andrea Gagliarducci
(http://www.catholicnewsagency.com/images/size340/Pope_Benedict_XVI_on_Aug_28_2010_Credit_LOsservatore_Romano_CNA_2.jpg)
Pope Benedict XVI on Aug. 28, 2010. Credit: L'Osservatore Romano.

Rome, Italy, Aug 30, 2017 / 03:32 pm (CNA/EWTN News).- The persecution and martyrdom of Christians will be the topic of discussion at an annual gathering of Pope Benedict XVI’s former theology students, who will meet in Rome Sept. 1-3 for a reunion and symposium.

The “Ratzinger Schuelerkreis” is a group of students who studied under Benedict XVI and who continue to meet each year.

Meeting alongside the Schuelerkreis will be a group called the New Schuelerkreis, comprised of young scholars who study the thought of Benedict XVI.

The upcoming symposium is entitled “On the Persecution of Christians and Martyrdom.”

Fr. Stephan Horn, coordinator of the Ratzinger Schuelerkreis and formerly assistant professor to Joseph Ratzinger in Regensburg, told CNA that the topic “met the consensus of the majority of the Schuelerkreis members, and Benedict XVI accepted it and immediately suggested the presenters for the symposium.”
 ::snipping3::


Title: Re: Pope Benedict RESIGNING
Post by: grace-land on September 26, 2017, 09:12:33 PM
https://www.catholicnewsagency.com/news/ratzinger-foundation-unveils-new-prize-announces-american-winners-92028

Ratzinger Foundation unveils new prize, announces American winners

Vatican City, Sep 26, 2017 / 01:58 pm (CNA/EWTN News).- The Vatican’s Joseph Ratzinger Foundation unveiled a new prize called “Expanding Reason,” aimed at promoting dialogue between the sciences and philosophy and theology in scholarly work.

Four Americans – Darcia Narvaez from the University of Notre Dame and Michael Schuck, Nancy C. Tuchman, and Jesuit Fr. Michael J. Garanzini from Loyola University – are among this year’s winners.

“Expanding Reason,” the name of the prize, “is a central idea in the teaching and in the work of Joseph Ratzinger (who would become Pope Benedict XVI) because he's a man of intelligence, he's a man of reason, of the search for truth,” Fr. Federico Lombardi, former director of the Holy See Press Office, told EWTN Sept. 26.

President of the Ratzinger Foundation, Fr. Lombardi said the idea for the prize came about as a way to encourage work in the direction of dialogue between science and philosophy, and science and theology – “in research and also in the organization of courses in the university.”
 ::snipping3::
https://zenit.org/articles/winners-of-this-years-ratzinger-prize-are-catholic-lutheran-and-orthodox/
Ratzinger Prize Winners Are Catholic, Lutheran, Orthodox 
Vatican Foundation Joseph Ratzinger – Benedict XVI Announces Upcoming Initiatives
September 26, 2017


Title: Re: Pope Benedict RESIGNING
Post by: grace-land on September 28, 2017, 08:00:18 PM
https://onepeterfive.com/summorum-pontificum-congress-report/

Summorum Pontificum Congress Report
Alessandro Rico    September 26, 2017

Summorum Pontificum: ten years later. The Fifth Colloquium in Rome, which marks the tenth anniversary of Pope Benedict XVI’s motu proprio, sustained the importance of an appropriate liturgy to the spiritual aggrandizement of man

Ten years after the promulgation of motu proprio whereby Pope Benedict XVI allowed the Church to celebrate the Mass according to the 1962 Roman Missal, in the form known as the Tridentine Mass, the ‘frontmen’ of what some call “the traditionalist fringe” (but whom I would simply call “good Catholics”) met up for a conference about Summorum Pontificum. The conference took place on September 14th, in Rome, at the Pontifical University of Saint Thomas Aquinas, also known as the Angelicum. Among the speakers were Friar Vincenzo M. Nuara, acting as chairman; His Excellence The Most Reverend Bishop Guido Pozzo, Secretary of the Pontifical Commission Ecclesia Dei; His Eminence The Most Reverend Cardinal Gerhard Ludwig Müller, Friar Marino Neri, Secretary of Amicizia Sacerdotale Summorum Pontificum; Right Reverend Dom Jean Pateau, Abbot of the Benedectine Abbey of Fontgombault; Dr. Martin Mosebach, writer and essayist (you can find his entire talk here); His Eminence The Most Reverend Cardinal Robert Sarah, Prefect of the Congregation for Divine Worship and the Discipline of Sacraments; Monsignor Markus Graulich, Under Secretary of the Pontifical Council for Legislative Texts; and Dr. Ettore Gotti Tedeschi, former President of IOR (Istituto per le Opere di Religione, the Vatican Bank).
 ::snipping3::


Title: Re: Pope Benedict RESIGNING
Post by: grace-land on October 03, 2017, 08:52:14 PM
https://zenit.org/articles/benedict-xvi-writes-preface-to-russian-version-of-opera-omnum/

Benedict XVI Writes Preface to Russian Version of Omnia 
Metropolitan Gave Pope Francis, Benedict XVI a Copy of the Volume
October 3, 2017

Pope Benedict has written the preface to the Russian version of the Opera Omnia (‘Collected Works’) by Joseph Ratzinger ‘Theology of the Liturgy,’ reported the Joseph Ratzinger – Benedict XVI Vatican Foundation, a Vatican institute inspired by the German Pontiff.

On September 25, Metropolitan Hilarion of Volokolamsk, president of the Department for External Church Relations of the Patriarchate of Moscow, was present in Rome for an ecumenical meeting, where he gave Pope Francis and Pope Emeritus Benedict XVI a copy of the volume XI of the Opera Omnia by Joseph Ratzinger, ‘Theology of the Liturgy,’ translated and published in Russian for the editions of the Patriarchate of Moscow.

The initiative is the result of formal scientific and editorial cooperation between the Publishing House of the Patriarchate of Moscow, the International Association “Sofia: Russian Idea, Idea of ​​Europe,” the International “Sapientia et Scientia” Academy, Libreria Editrice Vaticana and the Joseph Ratzinger – Benedict XVI Vatican Foundation.
 ::snipping3::


Title: Re: Pope Benedict RESIGNING
Post by: grace-land on October 06, 2017, 09:49:20 PM
https://twitter.com/EdwardPentin?ref_src=twsrc%5Egoogle%7Ctwcamp%5Eserp%7Ctwgr%5Eauthor
(https://pbs.twimg.com/media/DLXpAwhX0AA9Y8A.jpg)
http://www.ncregister.com/blog/edward-pentin/benedict-xvi-darkening-of-god-in-the-liturgy-is-root-cause-of-current-crisi

Oct. 5, 2017
Benedict XVI: Obscuring God in the Liturgy Is Root Cause of Crisis
Writing in the preface of a Russian edition of his book ‘Theology of the Liturgy,’ the Pope emeritus says a misunderstanding of liturgical reform has placed the Church in danger.
Edward Pentin


Title: Re: Pope Benedict RESIGNING
Post by: grace-land on October 18, 2017, 02:59:20 PM
Wednesday, October 18, 2017 -- Tweets
https://twitter.com/FatherRosica

Thomas Rosica Retweeted 
Greg Burke‏Verified account @GregBurkeRome · 3h3 hours ago 
The Pope Emeritus, Today at 5 p.m.
(https://pbs.twimg.com/media/DMb0ndyWsAA3cDT.jpg)


Title: Re: Pope Benedict RESIGNING
Post by: grace-land on October 18, 2017, 03:05:08 PM
https://cruxnow.com/vatican/2017/10/18/benedict-xvis-secretary-denies-rumors-close-death/

Benedict XVI’s secretary denies rumors that he is close to death
Catholic News Agency
October 18, 2017

ROME - Archbishop Georg Gänswein, the personal secretary of Pope Emeritus Benedict XVI, has rejected reports that the former pontiff is nearing death.

Rumors of Benedict XVI being close to death circulated on social media following a quote attributed to Gänswein, which reads, “Pope Benedict is like a candle that fades slowly. He is serene, at peace with God, with himself and the world. He can no longer walk without help and can no longer celebrate Mass.”

However, Gänswein called this quote “pure invention.”

“It is false and wrong! I would like to know who the author of this is,” he said, according to German media outlet kath.net.

“I have received in the last two days many messages that refer to this phrase, and people are worried,” he said.

Last week, Ratzinger’s brother Georg, who is 93, was at the Vatican to visit, and he has now returned home, Gänswein confirmed, adding, “Both had a good time.”
 ::snipping3::


Title: Re: Pope Benedict RESIGNING
Post by: grace-land on October 26, 2017, 10:37:35 PM
https://twitter.com/EdwardPentin?ref_src=twsrc%5Egoogle%7Ctwcamp%5Eserp%7Ctwgr%5Eauthor

Edward Pentin‏ @EdwardPentin · 5h5 hours ago 

+Oster of Passau, Germany, and journalist Peter Seewald today presented Benedict XVI with new book called “The German Pope”. They said he was healthy, “dazzling, full of esprit” despite a recent fall that has left him with a black eye

(https://pbs.twimg.com/media/DNGR97JWkAEJbIO.jpg)


Title: Re: Pope Benedict RESIGNING
Post by: grace-land on November 16, 2017, 01:38:59 PM
https://zenit.org/articles/theological-relevance-of-saint-bonaventure-message-of-pope-emeritus-benedict-xvi/

“Theological Relevance of Saint Bonaventure,” Message of Pope Emeritus Benedict XVI 
November 16, 2017
(https://zenit.org/wp-content/uploads/2017/11/Le-Pape-Émérite-Benoît-XVI-Et-Le-Pape-François-©-LOsservatore-Romano-400x266.jpg)
© L'Osservatore Romano
Pope Emeritus Benedict XVI addressed a message to the participants in a colloquium on the “Theological Relevance of Saint Bonaventure,” which gathered some 50 experts at the Pontifical Gregorian University in Rome, reported Vatican Radio in French (Cyprien Viet).

Joseph Ratzinger’s second post-doctoral thesis, in 1956, was, in fact, on the Theology of History in Saint Bonaventure (1217?-1274); a session of the colloquium was dedicated to it. In fact, the full works of the Pope Emeritus now include a translation in Italian.

Father Federico Lombardi, SJ, President of the Joseph Ratzinger-Benedict XVI Vatican Foundation, read a letter addressed by Benedict XVI to Belgian Jesuit Amaury Begasse de Dhaem, Professor Theology at the Gregorian.

Greeting the organizers of this colloquium, in the context of the eighth centenary of the birth of Saint Bonaventure (the date varies according to different sources between 1217 and 1221), Benedict XVI expressed the same intellectual enthusiasm. “When I received your invitation, I had just finished reading once again Fernand van Steenberghen’s book on the 13th century and, in comparing it with the subjects of the symposium, I saw at the end with satisfaction how, in the decades since then our knowledge on the 13th century has truly grown and deepened, precisely also in relation to the “Seraphic Doctor,” Bonaventure.

He affirmed notably that “awareness of the depth of his figure and of the richness of perspectives of his thought has augmented considerably.”
 ::snipping3::


Title: Re: Pope Benedict RESIGNING
Post by: grace-land on November 17, 2017, 07:43:20 PM
https://zenit.org/articles/ratzinger-prize-benedict-xvi-receives-the-three-laureates/

Ratzinger Prize: Benedict XVI Receives the Three Laureates 
November 17, 2017
(https://zenit.org/wp-content/uploads/2017/11/Benoît-XVI-Et-Les-Lauréats-Du-Prix-Ratzinger-©-Fondazioneratzinger.Va_-400x266.png)
© Fondazioneratzinger.Va
On November 17, 2017, Benedict XVI received the three laureates of the Ratzinger Prize in the Vatican: German Lutheran theologian Theodor Dieter; German theologian and Catholic priest Karl Heinz Menke, and Estonian sacred music composer Arvo Part.

According to a press released by the Joseph Ratzinger-Benedict XVI Vatican Foundation, the meeting was “very intense and serene.” The President of the Foundation, Father Federico Lombardi, SJ, accompanied the three laureates.

Pope Francis will hand the Prize of this seventh edition on November 18 at the Vatican, with the participation of Cardinal Kurt Koch, President of the Pontifical Council for Promoting Christian Unity. During the ceremony, the work “Pater Noster,” which Arvo Part composed for Benedict XVI’s 60th anniversary of priesthood in 2011.

The composer, who will play on a piano that belonged to the Pope Emeritus, will be accompanied by a soloist of the “Boys’ Choir” of the Saint Cecilia National Academy. A note of the Foundation recalls that the prize awarded “for the first time” to an artist, expresses “Benedict XVI’s appreciation for music and all the arts, which bring men close to the Truth and foster the encounter with God.”
 ::snipping3::


Title: Re: Pope Benedict RESIGNING
Post by: grace-land on November 20, 2017, 07:33:04 PM
http://www.catholicnews.com/services/englishnews/2017/pope-francis-calls-benedicts-teaching-precious-heritage.cfm

Pope Francis calls Benedict's teaching 'precious heritage'
By Cindy Wooden   Catholic News Service
11.20.2017 10:19 AM ET
(http://image.catholicnews.com/imagehandler/photos/2017/11/20/20171120T1154-12703-CNS-BENEDICT-RATZINGER-PRIZE_250.jpg)
CNS/L'Osservatore Romano

VATICAN CITY (CNS) -- The theological work and papal teaching of retired Pope Benedict XVI "continue to be a living and precious heritage for the church," Pope Francis said.

The pope met Nov. 18 with the winners of the 2017 Ratzinger Prize, named for the retired pope to honor those who make significant contributions to theology and culture.

The three winners had met the day before with Pope Benedict in his residence in the Vatican gardens.

Pope Francis told the group that Pope Benedict's "prayer and his discreet and encouraging presence accompany us on our common journey."
 ::snipping3::


Title: Re: Pope Benedict RESIGNING
Post by: grace-land on December 29, 2017, 10:14:01 PM
https://cruxnow.com/vatican/2017/12/28/honoring-cardinal-muller-retired-pope-says-bishops-never-really-retire/

Honoring Cardinal Müller, retired pope says bishops never really retire
Cindy Wooden  Dec 28, 2017
CATHOLIC NEWS SERVICE
(https://cruxnow.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/12/20171228T0900-0929-CNS-BENEDICT-MULLER_800-330x242.jpg)
Gerhard Ludwig Müller, former prefect of the Congregation for the Doctrine of the Faith, is seen at the Vatican in this 2016 file photo. (Credit: Paul Haring/CNS.)
ROME - Marking the 70th birthday of German Cardinal Gerhard Ludwig Müller, emeritus Pope Benedict XVI said that even though the cardinal is no longer prefect of the Congregation for the Doctrine of the Faith, he will continue to have a public role of serving the church.

The retired pope wrote the introduction to a book of essays honoring Müller on his 70th birthday Dec. 31 and in anticipation of the 40th anniversary of his priestly ordination in February.

Released in early December by the German publisher Herder, the book is titled, The Triune God: Christian Faith in the Secular Age.

In the introduction, Benedict wrote that Blessed Paul VI wanted the more demanding positions in the Roman Curia, particularly the posts of prefect and secretary of the congregations, “to be limited to only five years in order to protect the freedom of the pope and the flexibility of the Curia.”

Addressing Müller, Benedict said, “your five-year commission at the Congregation for the Doctrine of the Faith has expired, so you do not have a specific office anymore, but a priest and certainly a bishop and cardinal is never simply retired,” which is why he must continue to “publicly serve the faith.”
 ::snipping3::


Title: Re: Pope Benedict RESIGNING
Post by: grace-land on January 02, 2018, 09:08:49 PM
https://rorate-caeli.blogspot.com/2018/01/for-record-benedict-xvis-letter-to.html

For the Record: Full translation of Benedict XVI letter of support to Müller after dismissal by Francis -- plus: Ratzinger explains the liturgical revolution
[Translation: Contibutor Francesca Romana]
By Francesca Romana   at Tuesday, January 02, 2018

Full translation below:
 ::snipping3::


Title: Re: Pope Benedict RESIGNING
Post by: grace-land on January 02, 2018, 09:16:56 PM
 ::MonkeyShocked::
January 2, 2018

http://magister.blogautore.espresso.repubblica.it/2018/01/02/ratzinger-rehabilitates-muller-but-the-pope-emeritus-himself-is-being-hit-with-accusations-of-heresy/?refresh_ce

02 gen
Ratzinger Rehabilitates Müller. But the Pope Emeritus Himself Is Being Hit with Accusations of Heresy
 ::snipping3::
The attack in recent days on Ratzinger as theologian comes in a book just off the press that has as its author Enrico Maria Radaelli, known as the most faithful disciple of Romano Amerio (1905-1997), the Swiss philosopher who in 1985 published in “Iota Unum” the most systematic and detailed accusation against the Catholic Church of the second half of the twentieth century, for having subverted the foundations of doctrine in the name of modern subjectivism.

Radaelli’s book is entitled “Al cuore di Ratzinger. Al cuore del mondo,” and is published “pro manuscripto” by Aurea Domus, the publisher that is owned by the author himself, from which it can be bought via e-mail, as well as from a few bookstores in Rome and Milan.

What led Radaelli to the decision to accuse Ratzinger’s theology of being subversive as well was the reading and analysis of his best-known and most widely read theological work, that “Introduction to Christianity” which, published for the first time in 1968, later went through dozens of editions and numerous translations, down to our own day.

Now, what is most most striking is that Radaelli has not found himself alone in demolishing Ratzinger’s theological framework, because he received immediate support from a theologian and philosopher among the most decorated, Monsignor Antonio Livi, dean emeritus of the faculty of philosophy of the Pontifical Lateran University, a pontifical academic and president of the International Science and Commonsense Association.

In Livi’s judgment as well, in fact, Ratzinger and his theology potentially contributed to the rise to power, meaning to an ever more hegemonic role in the seminaries, in the pontifical universities, on the doctrinal commissions, in the curia dicasteries and at the highest levels of the hierarchy up to the papacy, of what he calls “the modernist theology with its evident heretical drift.”

It is not necessary to recap here the arguments that Radaelli musters in his indictment against Ratzinger as theologian and then pope. It is enough to read the perfectly clear presentation that Livi makes of them on this other page of Settimo Cielo:

> L'eresia al potere

From this it can be gathered that Francis is not the only pope who today is the target of a “correctio” for heresy, because not even his predecessor “emeritus” is sheltered from this anymore.

Both Radaelli and Livi are among the first signers of the “correctio” addressed to Pope Francis last summer. And now also of that against Benedict XVI.
 ::snipping3::



Title: Re: Pope Benedict RESIGNING
Post by: grace-land on February 07, 2018, 07:17:31 PM
http://magister.blogautore.espresso.repubblica.it/2018/01/10/why-ratzinger-is-not-a-heretic-the-defense-speaks/

10 gen
Why Ratzinger Is Not a Heretic. The Defense Speaks

The frontal attack on the theology of Joseph Ratzinger / Benedict XVI by Enrico Maria Radaelli and Antonio Livi, which Settimo Cielo covered at the beginning of the year, has given rise to a very lively debate.

Radaelli and Livi accuse Ratzinger of having reinterpreted the Christian faith “in the conceptual categories proper to modern subjectivism, from the transcendental idealism of Kant to the dialectical idealism of Hegel,” with the result of invalidating precisely “the basic notion of Christianity, that of faith in the revelation of supernatural mysteries by God.” In their judgment, in fact, in the theology of Ratzinger “this notion becomes irreparably deformed by the adoption of the Kantian schema of the impossibility of a metaphysical knowledge of God, which involves the negation of the rational premises of faith.”

On this charge of substantial heresy, Settimo Cielo has already hosted a first reply, signed by Antonio Caragliu.

And now here is a second, written by an administrative magistrate of Rome who is also an esteemed author of works of philosophy and theology.
*
NEITHER KANT NOR HEGEL. BETTER PAUL IN ATHENS
by Francesco Arzillo

I think that the final part of the unforgettable address by Benedict XVI at the Collège des Bernardins in Paris on September 12, 2008 could offer a decisive key for understanding succinctly - but also retrospectively - the true core of the thought of the “pope theologian.”

These are his exact words:
 ::snipping3::


Title: Re: Pope Benedict RESIGNING
Post by: grace-land on February 07, 2018, 07:38:02 PM
http://www.catholicnews.com/services/englishnews/2018/pilgrim-pope-benedict-says-hes-journeying-toward-god.cfm

Pilgrim pope: Benedict says he's journeying toward God
By Cindy Wooden Catholic News Service
2.7.2018 7:57 AM ET
(http://image.catholicnews.com/imagehandler/photos/2018/02/07/20180207T0843-14372-CNS-VATICAN-LETTER-BENEDICT_250.jpg)
CNS/Paul Haring
VATICAN CITY (CNS) -- "I am on a pilgrimage toward Home," retired Pope Benedict XVI wrote, capitalizing the Italian word "casa" or "home."

Almost exactly five years after announcing his intention to be the first pope in nearly 600 years to resign, Pope Benedict wrote the letter to a journalist from the Italian newspaper Corriere della Sera.

"I am touched to know how many of the readers of your newspaper want to know how I am experiencing this last period of my life," the 90-year-old retired pope wrote. "In that regard, I can only say that, with the slow diminishing of my physical strength, inwardly I am on a pilgrimage toward Home."

"It is a great grace in this last, sometimes tiring stage of my journey, to be surrounded by a love and kindness that I never could have imagined," said the letter, written on stationery with the heading "Benedictus XVI, Papa emeritus."

Massimo Franco, the journalist, said the letter, dated Feb. 5, was hand-delivered; the newspaper posted it online Feb. 6 and published it on the front page of the print edition Feb. 7.
 ::snipping3::


Title: Re: Pope Benedict RESIGNING
Post by: grace-land on February 11, 2018, 05:20:14 PM
http://www.ncregister.com/daily-news/benedict-xvis-abdication-five-years-later

Feb. 11, 2018
Benedict XVI’s Abdication, Five Years Later

COMMENTARY: All the immense good that he accomplished will continue to bear fruit. But his decision to abdicate will occupy the first place evaluating his legacy.
Father Raymond J. de Souza

It requires the distance of history to judge properly whether Pope Benedict XVI was right to abdicate in February 2013. Five years is not sufficient distance. A judgment about the wisdom of the abdication need not involve a judgment on the pontificate of Pope Francis, but in practice it is difficult to separate the two.

Nonetheless, on the fifth anniversary there is an opportunity to reflect more soberly than was the case immediately after the earthquake of Feb. 11, 2013, when Benedict concluded a routine ceremony for the canonization of saints with the announcement that he would abdicate at the end of that same month.
 ::snipping3::

At the link below:  a short video and the COMPLETE RENUNCIATION IN ENGLISH

https://www.romereports.com/en/2018/02/11/how-benedict-xvi-announced-his-resignation-from-the-papacy/
Benedict XVI  | 2018/02/11
How Benedict XVI announced his resignation from the papacy


Title: Re: Pope Benedict RESIGNING
Post by: grace-land on February 15, 2018, 09:20:11 PM
https://www.catholicnewsagency.com/news/vatican-denies-rumors-that-benedict-xvi-has-degenerative-nerve-disorder-35183

Vatican denies rumors that Benedict XVI has degenerative nerve disorder

Vatican City, Feb 15, 2018 / 01:33 pm (CNA/EWTN News).- After rumors spread in German media that Benedict XVI has a paralyzing nerve disease, the Vatican debunked the story, saying the retired Pope is experiencing nothing more than the normal aches and pains of aging.

“The recent news of a paralyzing or degenerative illness are false,” the Vatican said Feb. 15.

The statement was in response to a story published in German tabloid Neue Post Feb. 14, which quoted Benedict’s older brother Georg Ratzinger as saying that the Pope Emeritus had a degenerative nerve disease which left him increasingly in need of a wheelchair.
 ::snipping3::


Title: Re: Pope Benedict RESIGNING
Post by: grace-land on February 28, 2018, 04:53:36 PM
https://twitter.com/EdwardPentin?ref_src=twsrc%5Egoogle%7Ctwcamp%5Eserp%7Ctwgr%5Eauthor

Edward Pentin‏ @EdwardPentin · 5h  5 hours ago 

A 2016 interview with Benedict XVI in which he shares more about his reasons for resigning, re-published on the fifth anniversary of his last day as Pope @NCRegister http://www.ncregister.com/blog/twehner/benedict-xvi-shared-motives-for-resignation-in-2016-interview …
(https://pbs.twimg.com/media/DXI7TsBWsAERhHe.jpg)


Title: Re: Pope Benedict RESIGNING
Post by: grace-land on April 16, 2018, 01:17:50 PM
Happy 91st Birthday, Pope Emeritus Benedict!  :smt113

https://twitter.com/FatherRosica

Thomas Rosica Retweeted 
Pope news‏ @Pope_news · 20h  20 hours ago 

Monday 16th April is Benedict's 91st birthday. He will have a modest celebration with his older brother, Monsignor Georg Ratzinger, who is visiting from Regensburg.
(https://pbs.twimg.com/media/Da2yJb_W0AAsi32.jpg)


Title: Re: Pope Benedict RESIGNING
Post by: grace-land on April 16, 2018, 01:25:07 PM
Photo at the link

https://twitter.com/CatholicNewsSvc

Catholic News Service‏Verified account @CatholicNewsSvc · 2h  2 hours ago 

Like last year (this @oss_romano photo), retired Pope Benedict XVI celebrated his birthday today in the company of his brother, Msgr Georg Ratzinger. This evening, the Vatican says, the Swiss Guard Band will stop by and play some tunes. Happy 91st, Pope Benedict!


Title: Re: Pope Benedict RESIGNING
Post by: grace-land on April 16, 2018, 01:28:13 PM
Video at the link

https://www.vaticannews.va/en/pope/news/2018-04/pope-benedict-birthday-16-april-2018.html

Pope Emeritus Benedict XVI celebrates his 91st birthday
16 April 2018, 09:40

April 16 marks Pope Emeritus Benedict XVI's 91st birthday. He will be spending the day quietly in the 'Mater Ecclesia' Monastery in the Vatican, where he lives.

The day of Joseph Ratzinger’s birth has been seen by some as a sign of Divine Providence. It was certainly a sign of things to come. The future Pope Benedict XVI was born on Holy Saturday, April 16th 1927. His birthplace is Marktl-an-Inn, a tiny village less than an hour’s walk away from Altoetting, the most important Marian Shrine in Bavaria.
 ::snipping3::


Title: Re: Pope Benedict RESIGNING
Post by: grace-land on April 16, 2018, 08:32:19 PM
http://www.lastampa.it/2018/04/16/vaticaninsider/eng/the-vatican/ratzinger-turns-with-a-small-party-francis-sends-his-wishes-pvtS04TMiS1iWp3WPp2tOL/pagina.html

Ratzinger turns 91 with a “small party”. Francis sends his wishes   
Pubblicato il  16/04/2018
Ultima modifica il 16/04/2018 alle ore 21:48

A small party for a few intimate friends, "in a quiet and familiar atmosphere", very different from last year's 90th birthday amid beer mugs, pretzels and sweets of all kinds, even the Schuetzen had participate dressed in typical costume, to play traditional Bavarian music. Joseph Ratzinger celebrated his 91th birthday this afternoon in that Mater Ecclesiae, a former monastery in the heart of the Vatican Gardens, which became his residence on May 2, 2013 after the historic renunciation of the Petrine ministry. 

In honor of the Pope Emeritus the Swiss Guard musical band performed some songs, the Vatican Press Office informs us, reporting, among other things, that "early this morning, Pope Francis offered the holy mass for Benedict XVI and then sent him his personal wishes". 

At the feast in the Vatican Gardens there was Joseph Ratzinger’s elder brother, 94-year-old Monsignor Georg, who had come specially from Bavaria and who, in recent months had raised some concerns for an interview he gave in which he claimed that Benedict suffered from a "paralyzing disease", with the risk that it would also reach his heart. The Pope Emeritus’ closest collaborators, the Memores Domini and the Prefect of the Papal Household, Georg Gänswein, his special secretary, were there too. At 5 p.m., he moved to the Vatican Film Library where a preview of the documentary "Benedict XVI, the hour of truth" was presented, curated by Javier Martinez Brocal and Antonio Olivié, produced by Rome Reports, in collaboration with TV2000 and the Ratzinger Foundation, and under the patronage of the Ramon Tallaj Urena Foundation. 

Gänswein, who has been with Ratzinger for over a decade now, told those present that Pope Benedict "told me to bring you his greetings". And added, "I am often asked how he is. His mind is fine. He is 91, it is obvious that his strengths have diminished, they are reduced, but he is in a good mood, at peace with himself. And, above all, as I always say, he's in good company”.
 ::snipping3::
https://zenit.org/articles/feature-a-walk-through-the-life-of-benedict-xvi/
BIRTHDAY FEATURE: A Walk Through the Life of Benedict XVI 
Christmas Lists, Teddy Bears, and Miracles Have What in Common? Joseph Ratzinger … Pilgrimage Retraces His Life From Birth to Present
April 16, 2018 15:47


Title: Re: Pope Benedict RESIGNING
Post by: grace-land on May 07, 2018, 01:14:42 PM
https://www.vaticannews.va/en/pope/news/2018-05/pope-francis-benedict-xvi-preface-collected-writings-book.html#.WvA7DCKd1Ow.twitter

Pope Francis writes preface for 2nd volume of Ratzinger's collected writings
07 May 2018, 13:11

Pope Francis has written the preface for the second volume of collected writings by the Pope Emeritus, Benedict XVI, on the theme "faith and politics".

Entitled "Liberating freedom. Faith and politics in the third millennium", Pope Francis describes the work as a sort of compass to "understand our present and find a solid orientation for the future."

He elaborates on the main themes touched upon and concludes his preface saying that together with Benedict’s powerful Opera Omnia these writings are also “ a real source of inspiration for political action that, by placing the family, solidarity and equity at the centre of its attention and planning, truly looks to the future with foresight” .

The volume is scheduled to be launched in Rome on 11 May, in the presence of Archbishop Georg Gänswein, Prefect of the Papal Household and particular secretary of the Pope Emeritus together with other political and religious representatives.
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Title: Re: Pope Benedict RESIGNING
Post by: grace-land on July 26, 2018, 12:41:26 PM
https://twitter.com/EdwardPentin?ref_src=twsrc%5Egoogle%7Ctwcamp%5Eserp%7Ctwgr%5Eauthor

Edward Pentin‏ @EdwardPentin · 9h  9 hours ago 

Pope Emeritus #BenedictXVI yesterday with Italian photographer Stefano Spaziani. Benedict was reported to be “lucid, in good humour and physically quite active.” (Photo: Spaziani / Facebook)
(https://pbs.twimg.com/media/DjBHCfHWwAEV0iW.jpg)


Title: Re: Pope Benedict RESIGNING
Post by: grace-land on August 10, 2018, 09:55:02 PM
https://www.thetablet.co.uk/news/9554/jewish-leaders-complain-to-cardinal-koch-on-benedict-essay

09 August 2018 | by Christa Pongratz-Lippitt   
Jewish leaders complain to Cardinal Koch on Benedict essay

The essay on Christian-Jewish relations by Pope Emeritus Benedict that was published in Communio magazine last month has continued to provoke the anger of Jewish leaders.

Headlined “Grace and Vocation without Remorse”, the essay argued that the current rejection of the so-called substitution or replacement theory, which holds that the Church replaces Israel’s salvific role, needs more consideration. The Societies for Christian-Jewish Cooperation in Germany have already expressed “extreme irritation” and “fierce condemnation”, with regard to some of the views in the essay.

Now, in an official letter dated 3 August, the German Orthodox Rabbis’ Conference has asked the president of the pontifical commission for relations with the Jews, Cardinal Kurt Koch, to explain how Pope Emeritus Benedict’s Communio essay was supposed to enrich Jewish-Christian dialogue, and how far it is consistent with Pope Francis’ views on Judaism.

Koch persuaded Benedict to have the essay published.
 ::snipping3::


Title: Re: Pope Benedict RESIGNING
Post by: grace-land on August 15, 2018, 02:53:56 PM
https://www.lifesitenews.com/blogs/german-bishops-website-sharply-criticizes-pope-benedict-for-new-essay-on-th

Aug 14, 2018 - 8:59 pm EST
German bishops’ website sharply criticizes Pope Benedict for new essay on the Jews

August 14, 2018 (LifeSiteNews) – Pope Emeritus Benedict XVI published an essay in July on the question of the Jews, to include the Church's teaching on the Old Covenant and her relations with the Jewish religion. His attempt at refining and modifying some of the post-conciliar teaching in this matter – to adopt a somewhat more traditional viewpoint – has, however, provoked the indignation of many Christians and Jews, and also especially of Katholisch.de, the official website of the German bishops.

Pope Benedict originally wrote a study on the topic of the Jews at the request of Cardinal Kurt Koch, and only for internal use in the Pontifical Commission for Religious Relations with the Jews which is headed by Koch. Upon Koch's pleading, Benedict finally agreed to the publication of this study, in the July issue of the international Catholic journal Communio. He signed the text “Joseph Ratzinger/ Benedict XVI,” and Cardinal Koch himself wrote a short introduction to it, explaining its genesis.
 ::snipping3::
In response to such accusations, Cardinal Kurt Koch himself has now come to Benedict's defense. He said on August 13 that Benedict XVI's essay did not at all aim at a doubting or questioning, but, rather, aimed at a “deepening of the Jewish-Catholic dialogue.” According to Koch, Benedict tried to “deepen theologically this path” of dialogue. The cardinal also stated that this Ratzinger essay is about a “discussion within the Church which should promote the Jewish-Christian dialogue, and it is not so much a document of the Jewish-Christian dialogue itself.” But Koch also assured his Jewish partners that there is still no intention on the part of the Catholic Church to conduct missionary evangelical activities among the Jews.


Title: Re: Pope Benedict RESIGNING
Post by: grace-land on August 16, 2018, 06:13:13 PM
https://www.thetablet.co.uk/news/9582/koch-defends-benedict-s-communio-article

16 August 2018 | by Christa Pongratz-Lippitt   
Koch defends Benedict’s Communio article

Pope Emeritus Benedict did not call Christian-Jewish dialogue into question in his article published in Communio magazine in July, as claimed by Catholic and Jewish theologians, the Curia cardinal responsible for relations with Judaism told KNA news agency on 13 August.

Jewish critics have said Benedict fails to appreciate contemporary Judaism. But Cardinal Kurt Koch says that the Pope Emeritus wanted to deepen Catholic-Jewish dialogue. “Benedict discusses the basic convictions of Christian-Jewish dialogue not to expand on the problems or relativise or undermine the convictions but to specify and differentiate – and thereby to deepen them – theologically,” Cardinal Koch explained.

“Benedict’s reflections are concerned with an intra-Christian understanding that will promote Christian-Jewish dialogue, but not with a Christian-Jewish dialogue document itself,” the cardinal said. “It is of great importance to me,” he emphasised, “that the article should not cause uncertainty on the Jewish side but rather clarify the Catholic position and that no one on the Christian side should be able to get the idea that anti-Semitism and anti-Judaism are in any way at all justified and that Christians must or should try to convert Jews.”
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Title: Re: Pope Benedict RESIGNING
Post by: grace-land on September 20, 2018, 05:01:04 PM
https://www.catholicnewsagency.com/news/benedict-xvi-defends-resignation-and-title-pope-emeritus-in-private-letters-71782

Benedict XVI defends resignation and title ‘pope emeritus’ in private letters
Hannah Brockhaus

Vatican City, Sep 20, 2018 / 09:35 am (ACI Prensa).- In newly-surfaced letters from Benedict XVI, the pope emeritus has defended his abdication, and warned that continued anger at his decision risked undermining the papal office. The private correspondence, excerpts from which were carried in a German newspaper, was reportedly addressed to Cardinal Walter Brandmüller.

According to the letters, Benedict said he understood “the deep-seated pain” the end of his papacy caused the cardinal and others. At the same time, the pope emeritus wrote, he recognized that for some people the pain had “turned into an anger that no longer merely concerns my resignation, but increasingly also my person and my papacy as a whole.”

German newspaper Bild carried the excerpts in a story published Sept. 20. The letters were originally sent in November, 2017.

Bild did not name the recipient but referred to him only as “a German cardinal” who had made critical comments about Benedict’s resignation in an interview. On the same day, The New York Times reported that it had received a copy of the two letters in their entirety from Bild, and named Cardinal Brandmüller as the recipient. 
 ::snipping3::
https://www.nytimes.com/2018/09/20/world/europe/pope-francis-benedict.html
In Private Letters, Benedict Rebukes Critics of Pope Francis
By Jason Horowitz
Sept. 20, 2018


Title: Re: Pope Benedict RESIGNING
Post by: grace-land on September 21, 2018, 03:14:15 PM
https://www.lifesitenews.com/news/leaked-letter-benedict-explains-why-he-chose-to-be-called-pope-emeritus

Fri Sep 21, 2018 - 10:29 am EST
Leaked letters: Benedict explains why he chose to be called ‘Pope Emeritus’ (FULL TEXTS)
Diane Montagna

ROME, September 21, 2018 (LifeSiteNews) — The full contents of Benedict XVI’s letters to Cardinal Walter Brandmüller have been published, revealing Benedict’s conviction that he made the right decision to resign, his sensitivity to those critical of it, and why he chose to be called ‘Pope Emeritus.’

The contents of the letters also show that the New York Times was incorrect when it stated that Benedict said Francis’ critics need to, as the Times put it, “knock it off.”

The two letters (see below) appeared today in the German newspaper, Die Bild, and in English, in the National Catholic Register.

In the first letter, dated Nov. 9, 2017, Benedict explains that he chose to be ‘Pope Emeritus’ rather than returning to the life of a cardinal, in part to avoid the media spotlight.

He writes to Cardinal Brandmüller: “In my case it surely would not have made sense simply to claim a return to the Cardinalate. I then would have constantly been exposed to the public in the way a Cardinal is – indeed, even more so, because in that Cardinal one would have seen the former Pope.”

“This could have led, intentionally or unintentionally, to difficult consequences, particularly in the context of the present situation,” he adds.

Benedict continues: “With the Pope Emeritus I have tried to create a situation in which I am absolutely inaccessible to the media and in which it is completely clear that there is only one Pope. If you know of a better way and thus believe that you may condemn the one I have chosen, please tell me about it.”

The second letter, dated Nov. 23, 2017, reveals Benedict’s concern that Brandmüller’s Oct. 2017 interview with Frankfurter Allgemeine Zeitung would whip up anger against him and his pontificate, and the current state of the Church. Benedict describes his pontificate as being “devalued and fused into a sadness about the situation of the Church today.”

“From this fusion a new kind of agitation gradually results, for which the little book by Fabrizio Grasso, La rinuncia (Algra Editore, Viagrande/Catania 2017) could become emblematic,” writes Benedict.

“All this fills me with worry and, precisely for that reason, the end of your FAZ [Frankfurter Allgemeine Zeitung] interview left me so troubled, because it ultimately cannot but foster the same sort of atmosphere,” he says.

The 2017 book, ‘The resignation. Has God been defeated?’ [La rinuncia. Dio è stato sconfitto?] deals with Benedict’s resignation through the lens of the thought of Carl Schmitt, a German political theorist who, having abandoned Catholicism and allied himself with Nazism, became known as the “crown jurist of the Third Reich.” The author delves into the debate on the simultaneous presence of two Popes in the Catholic Church.

Here below we publish the full texts of both letters, with the kind permission of the National Catholic Register.
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http://www.ncregister.com/blog/edward-pentin/benedict-xvi-discusses-his-resignation-in-newly-published-letters
Sep. 19, 2018
Benedict XVI Discusses His Resignation in Newly Published Letters
The words of the Pope Emeritus from November 2017 show he is aware of the pain his resignation caused, and the sorrow people feel about the current situation facing the Church.
Edward Pentin


Title: Re: Pope Benedict RESIGNING
Post by: grace-land on September 21, 2018, 03:49:39 PM
https://www.lifesitenews.com/blogs/remembering-cardinal-brandmuellers-criticism-of-pope-benedicts-resignation

Sep 20, 2018 - 1:40 pm EST
Remembering Cardinal Brandmüller’s criticism of Pope Benedict’s resignation

September 20, 2018 (LifeSiteNews) – Today, two letters from Pope Benedict XVI to an unnamed German cardinal were leaked. In these letters, the retired Pope defends himself against criticism of his decision to resign.

In 2016 and 2017, it was Cardinal Walter Brandmüller who wrote his own public criticism of this papal resignation.

“The resignation of a Pope is possible and has happened. But it is to be hoped that it never happens again,” were Cardinal Brandmüller’s specific and earnest words.

As today Katholisch.de – the news website of the German bishops – points out, Cardinal Brandmüller, as a Church historian and former President of the Papal Commission for Historical Sciences, rebuked Pope Benedict XVI in a 2017 interview with the Frankfurter Allgemeine Zeitung.

Cardinal Brandmüller said in that interview with the Frankfurter Allgemeine Zeitung that “the ‘papa emeritus’ as a figure does not exist in the entire Church history.” It did “not only astonish the cardinals,” he adds, “that a Pope now comes and tumbles down a 2,000-year-old tradition.” For him, at the time, the news of Benedict's resignation seemed to be a pre-Lenten “carnival jest.”

Earlier, in the summer of 2016, Cardinal Brandmüller made even more detailed remarks. At the time, there had been a discussion going on concerning Archbishop Georg Gänswein’s claims of a “continued mystical participation in the papacy” from the retired Pope. Brandmüller responded to this in an essay for the Italian journal Stato, Chiese, e pluralismo confessionale and said that such talk belongs to the realm “of uplifting speculations of religious poetry.”
 ::snipping3::


Title: Re: Pope Benedict RESIGNING
Post by: grace-land on October 12, 2018, 08:37:00 PM
https://www.thetablet.co.uk/news/10854/cardinal-sarah-and-pope-emeritus-contribute-to-new-commemorative-edition-of-the-spirit-of-the-liturgy-from-ignatius-press

12 October 2018 | by James Roberts   
Cardinal Sarah and Pope Emeritus contribute to new commemorative edition of “The Spirit of the Liturgy” from Ignatius Press

To celebrate the 40th anniversary of the founding of Ignatius Press, the publisher’s founder, Fr Joseph Fessio SJ, has arranged for the publication of a new edition of the Spirit of the Liturgy by Cardinal Joseph Ratzinger, in combination with the book of the same title by Fr Romano Guardini, that had a profound impact on Ratzinger.

The commemorative edition contains a foreword by the Prefect of the Congregation for Divine Worship and the Discipline of the Sacraments, Cardinal Robert Sarah, dated 13 January this year, and a Preface by Pope Emeritus Benedict XVI, dated 2 February this year.

Cardinal Sarah emphasises the importance of catechesis with regard to the liturgy. “We can say that our liturgical life is impoverished and very soon turns into hollow ritualism if it is not based on serious knowledge of the meaning of the liturgy, and that catechesis becomes intellectualised if it fails to come alive in liturgical practice,” he writes.
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In his new Preface the Pope Emeritus himself writes: “ The question of what it means to be Catholic, of what fundamental spiritual decisions today’s Catholic must make, has been asked since the Second Vatican Council with a new radicalness … It soon became obvious that a Church that could no longer mediate the encounter with the living God, but instead only enabled little groups to celebrate themselves, would be a meaningless Church. And it became evident as well that this issue concerned far more than just the community of believers. Rather, it was seen that the collapse of the Church, considered a possibility by sociologists, would represent a catastrophe of unforeseeable proportions for the whole of mankind.”

The right understanding and celebration of the liturgy, the Pope Emeritus writes, is key to the prevention of this catastrophe, and he praises the “courage and humility” of Fr Fessio, who was prepared to endure “many blows” in making credible through what Ignatius published, “the tidings for which he stands”.


Title: Re: Pope Benedict RESIGNING
Post by: grace-land on November 27, 2018, 07:25:10 PM
https://www.vaticannews.va/en/church/news/2018-11/pope-emeritus-benedict-dialogue-with-the-jews-not-mission.html#.W_2Be53kP18.twitter

Pope emeritus Benedict: Dialogue with the Jews, not mission
27 November 2018, 09:02
(https://www.vaticannews.va/content/dam/vaticannews/images-multimedia/papa-ratzinger/Papa_Benedetto%20XVI_Ratzinger.png/_jcr_content/renditions/cq5dam.thumbnail.cropped.250.141.png)
Pope emeritus Benedict XVI 
The Pope emeritus “corrects” an article by theologian Michael Böhnke and rejects as “absolutely false” the insinuation that Benedict has called into question the foundations of Jewish-Christian dialogue.
By Vatican News

In a “correction” sent to the German monthly Herder Korrespondenz, Joseph Ratzinger/Benedict XVI affirmed that Christians are called to a “dialogue” with the Jews, rather than a “mission.” The Pope emeritus was responding to an article by theologian Michael Böhnke of Wuppertal. In the September issue of the journal, Böhnke had commented disapprovingly on statements made by Benedict concerning the relationship between Jews and Christians.

A completely false insinuation

Judaism and Christianity, said Benedict, are “two ways of interpreting the Scriptures.” For Christians, the promises made to Israel are the hope of the Church, and “those who abide by it are in no way questioning the foundations of the Jewish-Christian dialogue.” The accusation contained in the article, he continued, is “grotesque nonsense and has nothing to do with what I said about it. I therefore reject his article as a completely false insinuation.”

Böhnke had argued that Benedict XVI, in an article for the theological journal Communio, had demonstrated a problematic understanding of Judaism, and had ignored the suffering Christians had inflicted upon Jews.
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Title: Re: Pope Benedict RESIGNING
Post by: grace-land on December 22, 2018, 07:44:25 PM
https://www.vaticannews.va/en/pope/news/2018-12/pope-francis-pays-christmas-visit-to-pope-emeritus-benedict-xvi.html

Pope Francis pays Christmas visit to Pope emeritus Benedict XVI
22 December 2018, 11:24
(https://www.vaticannews.va/content/dam/vaticannews/multimedia/2018/12/21/1545420274206-PAPA%20AUGURI%20NATALE%20BXVI%203.jpg/_jcr_content/renditions/cq5dam.thumbnail.cropped.250.141.jpeg)
On Friday evening, Pope Francis visited the Pope emeritus in order to exchange Christmas greetings.

As he has done every year since his election, Pope Francis on Friday made the short journey to the Mater Ecclesiae Monastery, for a Christmas visit with his predecessor, Pope emeritus Benedict XVI.
 ::snipping3::

More photos--
http://www.ncregister.com/blog/edward-pentin/pope-francis-and-benedict-xvi-exchange-christmas-greetings
Dec. 21, 2018
Pope Francis and Benedict XVI Exchange Christmas Greetings



Title: Re: Pope Benedict RESIGNING
Post by: grace-land on January 22, 2019, 10:36:03 PM
https://www.thetablet.co.uk/news/11267/austrian-and-german-rabbis-reconciled-with-pope-benedict-xvi-

22 January 2019, The Tablet
Austrian and German Rabbis reconciled with Pope Benedict XVI

Tensions between emeritus Pope Benedict XVI and a number of Austrian and German Rabbis which arose over a text written by Benedict on Jewish-Christian relations and published in the theological journal "Communio" last July (2018), have been resolved, Vienna’s Chief Rabbi has said.

The Chief Rabbi of Vienna, Arie Folger told Vatican News on 16 January that he along with Rabbi Jehuda Pushkin from Stuttgart, Rabbi Jehoschua Ahrens from Darmstadt and the emeritus Pope had a “very good talk” during a 16 January meeting in the Vatican.

Orthodox Jews were now prepared to “discuss matters that had only cropped up in recent decades” with Catholics, above all the matter of the Promised Land, that is the Land God promised to the Jews, Rabbi Folger said.

Of course Christians and Jews had differences of opinion, “but now we are on an upward swing and are trying to see one another positively”, he said.
 ::snipping3::


Title: Re: Pope Benedict RESIGNING
Post by: grace-land on February 11, 2019, 05:23:19 PM
https://www.vaticannews.va/en/pope/news/2019-02/benedict-xvi-relevance-magisterium-tornielli-editorial.html#.XGF8XC1aGcs.twitter

Benedict XVI six years later: the relevance of a Magisterium
11 February 2019, 12:13
(https://www.vaticannews.va/content/dam/vaticannews/images-multimedia/papa-ratzinger/00388-n.1801%20Messa%2011-06-2010%20ok.jpg/_jcr_content/renditions/cq5dam.thumbnail.cropped.250.141.jpeg)
Benedict XVI   (Vatican Media)
On February 11th 2013, Pope Benedict XVI announced his resignation. Vatican News’ Editorial Director looks back at this event and suggests it would be a mistake to remember the Pope Emeritus for this reason only.
By Andrea Tornielli

Six years have passed since that bolt from the blue: the announcement of the first papal resignation for reasons of health and old age. After eight years as Pope, Benedict XVI announced his intention to resign from the Petrine ministry at the end of February, because he no longer felt able, physically and spiritually, to carry the weight of that ministry – one that has changed greatly over the past century in the way it is exercised: in terms of celebrations, commitments, and international journeys.

Testimony of Benedict XVI

Much has been said and written about that papal resignation. The result is that we risk focusing exclusively on the gesture itself, being distracted from the personal testimony and, above all, the Magisterium of Pope Benedict XVI.  In a few days, the Meeting for the Protection of Minors will take place in the Vatican, with the participation of Presidents of Bishops’ Conferences from around the world, together with Pope Francis. In terms of Pope Benedict’s testimony, it is worthwhile remembering that he was the one who began meeting with victims of abuse. Meetings that always took place far from the cameras, and that involved listening, praying, and tears. Accompanying these meetings were clearer and more decisive rules to combat the terrible plague of abuse. Today there is no doubt that the necessary change of mentality, on the part of bishops and religious superiors first of all, passes through this ability to meet with victims and their families. It requires participating in the pain of their dramatic stories, being aware that this phenomenon can never be fought with norms, codes or best practices alone.

Magisterium of Benedict XVI
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https://zenit.org/articles/pope-benedicts-address-on-resignation-from-the-see-of-rome/
Pope Benedict’s 11 February 2013 Address on Resignation From the See of Rome 
February 11, 2019 12:39


Title: Re: Pope Benedict RESIGNING
Post by: grace-land on February 12, 2019, 08:47:44 PM
http://www.mondayvatican.com/vatican/here-is-why-pope-francis-trip-to-the-uae-is-benedict-xvis-vindication

Here is why Pope Francis’ trip to the UAE is Benedict XVI’s vindication
By Andrea Gagliarducci On 11 febbraio 2019
(http://www.mondayvatican.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/02/mpor_20190204_352_1549299475-150x150.jpg)
Nothing is born out of nothing. Not even Pope Francis’ trip to the United Arab Emirates. The first Pope to travel to a country in the Arab Gulf, Pope Francis brought back home a joint declaration with al Azhar university that underscores that no violence can be applied in the name of God; that citizenship is something not connected to religion; that freedom is everybody’s right, and includes religious freedom.

These are not issues that can be taken for granted, when it comes to the Islamic world. Because citizenship, in Islam, is always connected to the faith you profess. Because, where Islamic law is understood and applied literally, conversion to another religious confessions is still considered apostasy and condemned. And because acts of terrorism have often been justified as part of the “jihad mandate”.

These are not issues that can be taken for granted, though there is a path within Islam to overcome these notions, and even to go beyond the literal application of the Quran. This path led to the Marrakech declaration in 2015, to the Beirut Conference in 2016, to the International Conference for Peace of Cairo in 2017, to the Islamabad Declaration in 2018, and finally to the conference on Human Fraternity in the Arab Emirates.

A main blazer of this path is the Council of the Elderly, established in 2014 and led by Ahmed al Tayyib, Grand Imam of al Azhar. While not all of the Islamic world is in this path, it is anyway a beginning.

It must be said that, back in 2006, few would have thought that Islamic scholars could sign a declaration like the Abu Dhabi one. During those years, a dialogue with Islam was feared, or carried out with a sort of inferiority complex. There was a fear to spell out with the Islamic world the real nature of the issues.

Then, in 2006, with Benedict XVI’s Regensburg lecture, everything changed
.
 ::snipping3::
Six years after the historic Benedict XVI’s renunciation, though, it can be said that Benedict XVI and his pontificate were not understood at all, since it was really larger than its time, and identified trends before they clearly emerged.

Now, retired on the mountain, held in great esteem by Pope Francis —who recently underscored again his merit in countering the sex abuse scandals— Benedict XVI intercedes for the Church. From that far position, despite all the limits imposed by the current situation, he can begin to see part of his work flourishing.


Title: Re: Pope Benedict RESIGNING
Post by: grace-land on March 02, 2019, 10:05:08 PM
Video at the link

https://www.romereports.com/en/2019/03/01/kazakhstan-bishops-present-pope-image-of-mary-queen-of-peace/
Kazakhstan bishops present pope image of Mary Queen of Peace
2019/03/01

Pope Francis met with 10 bishops of Kazakhstan's Episcopal Conference. There were also bishops from Kyrgyzstan, Uzbekistan and Turkmenistan present. They are from countries where Catholics are a minority

It was a brief meeting, but nonetheless very symbolic.

“Welcome!”

As a present, the bishops presented this image of Our Lady to Pope Francis. In 1941, some deported Polish people prayed to the Blessed Mother for help, after being left to their own fate. As a result, they miraculously found a lake containing fish to eat during the middle of winter.

However, this was not the only gift he received.

“And this is the first book of prayers written in Kazakh.”
 ::snipping3::

Photo at the link below

https://twitter.com/EdwardPentin?ref_src=twsrc%5Egoogle%7Ctwcamp%5Eserp%7Ctwgr%5Eauthor
Edward Pentin‏ @EdwardPentin · 9h 9 hours ago 
Bishops of Kazakhstan meeting Pope Emeritus Benedict XVI yesterday via @go_alexey @EWTNVatican



Title: Re: Pope Benedict RESIGNING
Post by: grace-land on March 19, 2019, 02:03:59 PM
Happy St. Joseph's Day!
Happy Feast Day, Pope Emeritus Benedict XVI (Joseph Ratzinger)!

https://www.vaticannews.va/en/pope/news/2019-03/pope-benedict-vi-name-day-march-19.html#.XJDIvza7G94.twitter
Photo gallery of Benedict XVI on feast day
18 March 2019, 13:37
(https://www.vaticannews.va/content/dam/vaticannews/images-multimedia/papa-ratzinger/00086-ug%2008-02-06%20n.51444%20ok.jpg/_jcr_content/renditions/cq5dam.thumbnail.cropped.250.141.jpeg)
March 19, feast of St Joseph, is the name feast of Pope Emeritus Benedict XVI. Cardinal Joseph Ratzinger, adopted the name Benedict on his election as Pope on 19 April 2005.
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Title: Re: Pope Benedict RESIGNING
Post by: grace-land on April 10, 2019, 08:24:10 PM
http://www.ncregister.com/daily-news/pope-emeritus-benedict-speaks-up-on-the-current-sex-abuse-crisis

Vatican |  Apr. 10, 2019
Benedict XVI Breaks His Silence on the Catholic Church’s Sex-Abuse Crisis
In a German-language essay published Thursday, the pope emeritus provides a way forward.
Edward Pentin

VATICAN CITY — In his most significant pronouncement since he resigned the papacy in 2013, Pope Emeritus Benedict XVI has written a lengthy essay on clerical sex abuse in which he explains what he sees as the roots of the crisis, the effects it has had on the priesthood, and how the Church should best respond.

Running at just over 6,000 words and to be published April 11 in Klerusblatt, a small-circulation Bavarian monthly, Benedict XVI places the blame mainly on the sexual revolution and a collapse of Catholic moral theology since the Second Vatican Council. This resulted, he argues, in a “breakdown” in the seminary formation that had preceded the Council.

Benedict criticizes canon law for initially being insufficient in dealing with the scourge, explains the reforms he introduced to deal with abuse cases, and asserts that “only obedience and love for our Lord Jesus Christ” can lead the Church out of the crisis.

The pope emeritus begins his essay, entitled “The Church and the Scandal of Sexual Abuse,” by noting that the “extent and gravity” of the abuse crisis has “deeply distressed” priests and laity and “driven more than a few to call into question the very faith of the Church.”

Recalling the Vatican’s Feb. 21-24 summit on the protection of minors in the Church, he says it was “necessary” to send out a “strong message” and seek a “new beginning” so the Church could again become “truly credible.”

Benedict writes that he compiled notes from the documents and reports from that meeting that culminated in this text, which he says he has shown to Pope Francis and Cardinal Pietro Parolin, the Vatican secretary of state.
 ::snipping3::
https://www.catholicnewsagency.com/news/full-text-of-benedict-xvi-the-church-and-the-scandal-of-sexual-abuse-59639
Full text of Benedict XVI: 'The Church and the scandal of sexual abuse'


Title: Re: Pope Benedict RESIGNING
Post by: grace-land on April 16, 2019, 10:32:23 AM
Happy 92nd Birthday, Pope emeritus Benedict XVI!  :smt113

https://www.vaticannews.va/en/pope/news/2019-04/pope-francis-benedict-pope-emeritus-birthday-easter-greetings.html
Pope Francis visits Pope emeritus on eve of Benedict’s birthday
16 April 2019, 09:28
(https://www.vaticannews.va/content/dam/vaticannews/multimedia/2019/04/15/FOTO%20(1).jpg/_jcr_content/renditions/cq5dam.thumbnail.cropped.250.141.jpeg)
Pope Francis with Pope emeritus Benedict XVI
At the beginning of Holy Week, Pope Francis makes a special visit to the Mater Ecclesiae Monastery to offer Easter greetings to the Pope emeritus, Benedict XVI.

The visit was announced by ad interim director of the Holy See Press Office, Alessandro Gisotti, who noted that the encounter also offered Pope Francis the opportunity, “with particular affection”, to wish Benedict a happy 92nd birthday.

Joseph Ratzinger was elected to the papacy in 2005 just three days after his 78th birthday, making him one of the oldest popes at the time of his election.
 ::snipping3::
https://twitter.com/FatherRosica
Thomas Rosica Retweeted 
 Austen Ivereigh‏ @austeni · 9h 9 hours ago 
 
On his birthday, read Benedict XVI’s 2008 meditation in Notre Dame, “rising in the heart of the city as a living sign of God’s presence in our midst ... It is hard not to give thanks to the Creator of both matter and spirit for the beauty of this edifice”  http://w2.vatican.va/content/benedict-xvi/en/homilies/2008/documents/hf_ben-xvi_hom_20080912_parigi-vespri.html …


Title: Re: Pope Benedict RESIGNING
Post by: grace-land on April 27, 2019, 08:53:36 PM
https://www.firstthings.com/web-exclusives/2019/04/benedict-and-his-critics

Benedict and His Critics
by Gerhard Ludwig Müller
4 . 26 . 19

Pope Francis is happy with Benedict XVI’s profound analysis of the reasons behind the abuse crisis in the Church, and grateful to his predecessor for pointing out the conclusions those in positions of responsibility must draw. Benedict XVI has rich experience with these issues: from his ministry as a priest (since 1953), as a theology professor (1957), as a bishop (1976), as Prefect of the Congregation for the Doctrine of the Faith under Pope John Paul II (1981–2005), and as pope (2005–2013).

In the Church, the crucial instrument against sexual abuse is the Motu proprio Sacramentorum sanctitatis tutela (2001). This law goes back to John Paul II and Joseph Ratzinger, proving that Benedict was and is the most important figure in the Church’s fight against this crisis. He has the widest view of and deepest insight into this problem, its causes and history. He is in a better position than all the blind who want to lead other blind people—not the truly blind on whom Jesus has mercy, but those he warns against because they see and yet do not want to see (cf. Lk 6:39; Mt 13.13).

At age 92, Benedict XVI is capable of deeper theological reflection than his critics, who lack respect and are ideologically blinded. He is able to get closer to the source of the fire that has set the Church's roof ablaze. The catastrophic fire in Paris, in one of Christendom's most venerable houses of God, also has a symbolic meaning: It makes us appreciate again the work of good firefighters, instead of blaming them for the water damage done in the course of extinguishing the flames. Rebuilding and renewing the whole Church can only succeed in Christ—if we get our bearings by the Church’s teaching on faith and morals.

The recent assembly of the heads of episcopal conferences in Rome (February 21–24, 2019) should have signaled the beginning of getting to the roots of the evil of abuse. Only if we get to these roots can the Church in Jesus regain credibility as the sacrament of redemption for the world, and again communicate the faith that brings salvation which unites us to God. Unfortunately, the practical conclusions drawn from this assembly have not yet been made public, so the U.S. Bishops’ Conference cannot yet put its suspended measures into practice.
 ::snipping3::


Title: Re: Pope Benedict RESIGNING
Post by: grace-land on May 11, 2019, 12:24:05 PM
http://magister.blogautore.espresso.repubblica.it/2019/05/09/risen-%e2%80%9caccording-to-the-scriptures-%e2%80%9d-a-freshly-published-easter-homily-of-joseph-ratzinger/

09 mag
Risen “According To the Scriptures.” A Freshly Published Easter Homily of Joseph Ratzinger
(http://magister.blogautore.espresso.repubblica.it/files/2019/05/Omelie2.jpg)
After the sensational publication of his “notes” on the scandal of sexual abuse in the Catholic Church, after the publication of his correspondence with the chief rabbi of Vienna, here comes in double time a new public statement of pope emeritus Benedict XVI, with the publication of twenty-five of his homilies, almost all of them issued for the first time.

Most of them date back to the 1970’s and ’80’s, the most recent is from 2003. They are grouped by liturgical season: Advent, Christmas, Lent, Easter, and finally ordinary time.

The publlication was edited by Pierluca Azzaro, who is also the author of the Italian translation of this and other works by Joseph Ratzinger.

The edition of the volume in Italian is the first to come out in bookstores, as of May 2, entrusted by the pope emeritus to the publisher Davide Cantagalli:

> Joseph Ratzinger/Benedetto XVI, “Per Amore,” edited by Pierluca Azzaro, Edizioni Cantagalli, Siena, 2019.

But there will soon follow the editions in English with Ignatius Press, in French with Parole et Silence, in Spanish with Herder España, in Portuguese with Principia, in German with Johannes Verlag, and then also in Croatian, Polish, Serbian.

Not only that. In September there will come out in bookstores - again starting in Italy - a second collection of newly published homilies by Ratzinger, entitled: “Sacramenti. Segni di Dio nel mondo,” this time edited by Elio Guerriero.

It should come as no surprise that pope emeritus Benedict is interested in publishing these texts. The many large volumes of his “opera omnia,” in an advanced phase of publication in several languages, is in fact missing the homilies, which however have a place of absolute prominence in Ratzinger’s life as theologian, bishop, cardinal, and pope. It is not a long shot to say that, like Pope Leo the Great, Pope Benedict too will go down in history for his homilies
 ::snipping3::


Title: Re: Pope Benedict RESIGNING
Post by: grace-land on May 11, 2019, 12:34:44 PM
Hmmm...

https://www.thecatholicthing.org/2019/05/11/the-dubia-were-answered/

The Dubia Were Answered
Elizabeth A. Mitchell
Saturday, May 11, 2019

Perhaps it was because Notre-Dame de Paris was burning. Perhaps it was because the best place to hide something from view is in plain sight.  Or perhaps it was because we look for power in wind, earthquake, and fire, but miss the “still small voice” of God when He passes by. (1 Kgs 19:11-13)

Whatever the reason, the world watched, read, and missed the answers to the dubia proposed by Pope Emeritus Benedict XVI in his April essay, “The Church and the Scandal of Sexual Abuse.”

In offering a three-part response to the crisis in the Church, he indirectly answers the five dubia that Cardinals Brandmüller, Caffarra, Meisner, and Burke presented years ago to Pope Francis. The pope emeritus fulfilled a duty that Pope Francis has not, namely, to maintain the bishops and all the faithful in the unity of the Church’s constant teaching on faith and morals.

What did the pope emeritus say?  He gives the Church and the world an unequivocal No, Yes, Yes, Yes, and Yes. Five questions, five answers:

Dubium One: It is asked whether, following the affirmations of “Amoris Laetitia” (nn. 300-305), it has now become possible to grant absolution in the Sacrament of Penance and thus to admit to Holy Communion a person who, while bound by a valid marital bond, lives together with a different person “more uxorio” (in a marital way) without fulfilling the conditions provided for by “Familiaris Consortio” n. 84 and subsequently reaffirmed by “Reconciliatio et Paenitentia” n. 34 and “Sacramentum Caritatis” n. 29. Can the expression “in certain cases” found in note 351 (n. 305) of the exhortation “Amoris Laetitia” be applied to divorced persons who are in a new union and who continue to live “more uxorio”?

Benedict’s response: No.  “We run the risk of becoming masters of faith instead of being renewed and mastered by the Faith.  Let us consider this with regard to a central issue, the celebration of Holy Eucharist.  Our handling of the Eucharist can only arouse concern. . . .What predominates is not a new reverence for the presence of Christ’s death and resurrection, but a way of dealing with Him that destroys the greatness of the Mystery. . . .The Eucharist is devalued into a mere ceremonial gesture when it is taken for granted that courtesy requires Him to be offered at family celebrations or on occasions such as weddings and funerals to all those invited for family reasons. . . .t is rather obvious that we do not need another Church in our own design. Rather, what is required first and foremost is the renewal of the Faith in the Reality of Jesus Christ given to us in the Blessed Sacrament. . . .And we must do all we can to protect the gift of the Holy Eucharist from abuse.”
 ::snipping3::


Title: Re: Pope Benedict RESIGNING
Post by: grace-land on May 20, 2019, 05:58:54 PM
http://magister.blogautore.espresso.repubblica.it/2019/05/20/cardinal-sarah-endorses-the-%e2%80%9cnotes%e2%80%9d-of-pope-benedict-%e2%80%9cmartyr-for-the-truth%e2%80%9d/

di Sandro Magister
20 mag
Cardinal Sarah Endorses the “Notes” of Pope Benedict, “Martyr For the Truth”
(http://magister.blogautore.espresso.repubblica.it/files/2019/05/Sarah2.jpg)
Cardinal Robert Sarah took everyone by surprise on the evening of May 14 in Rome, in the auditorium of the cultural center of the church of St. Louis of the French, when everyone was expecting him to present his latest book, entitled “Le soir approche et déjà le jour baisse,” on the Church’s crisis of faith and the decline of the West.

Because instead, the cardinal said right away, “this evening I will not talk about this book at all.” And the reason - he explained - is that “the fundamental ideas that I develop in it were illustrated, presented, and demonstrated brilliantly last April by Pope Benedict XVI in the ‘notes’ that he had composed in view of the summit of the presidents of the episcopal conferences on sexual abuse convened in Rome by Pope Francis from February 21 to 24.”

Cardinal Sarah continued:

“His reflection has revealed itself to be a true source of light in the night of faith that touches the whole Church. It has prompted reactions that at times have bordered on intellectual hysteria. I have felt personally struck by the wretchedness and coarseness of several comments. We must be convinced that once again the theologian Ratzinger, whose stature is that of a true father and doctor of the Church, has seen correctly and has touched the deepest heart of the Church’s crisis.
 ::snipping3::


Title: Re: Pope Benedict RESIGNING
Post by: grace-land on June 14, 2019, 08:13:17 PM
Photos at rhe link

https://cruxnow.com/church-in-uk-and-ireland/2019/06/14/the-pope-brings-drama-of-benedict-and-francis-to-stage/

“The Pope” brings drama of Benedict and Francis to stage
Charles Collins   Jun 14, 2019

NORTHAMPTON, United Kingdom - In 2013, the resignation of Pope Benedict XVI and the subsequent election of Pope Francis shocked the world, and the contrast in styles between the two men just added to the drama.

The story seems perfect for the stage: The German former doctrinal chief and the Argentinian Jesuit bishop of the slums, each representing competing visions of the Church.

It’s finally happened. “The Pope” opened June 8 at the Royal & Derngate Theatre in Northampton, England, and runs until June 22.

New Zealand’s Anthony McCarten seems perfect for the job of bringing the two popes to “life” on stage. Three of the last five Best Actor Oscars have gone to men playing historical figures in films written by McCarten: Eddie Redmayne as Stephen Hawking in 2014’s “The Theory of Everything”; Gary Oldman as Winston Churchill in 2017’s “Darkest Hour”; and Rami Malek as Freddie Mercury in last year’s megahit “Bohemian Rhapsody.”
 ::snipping3::
McCarten has not finished with “The Pope.” He wrote a book called The Pope: Francis, Benedict, and the Decision That Shook the World, released earlier this year. “The Pope” will also be a film- based on the book, not the play - starring Anthony Hopkins as Benedict and Jonathan Pryce as Francis scheduled for release on Netflix later this year.


Title: Re: Pope Benedict RESIGNING
Post by: grace-land on June 18, 2019, 08:33:34 PM
https://www.catholicnewsagency.com/news/vatican-quashes-rumors-of-benedict-xvi-stroke-32364

Vatican quashes rumors of Benedict XVI stroke

Vatican City, Jun 18, 2019 / 11:01 am (CNA).- Pope Benedict XVI is not dead and did not recently suffer a stroke, the Vatican confirmed on Tuesday.

On Monday, rumors circulated on Twitter and other social media platforms that the Pope Emeritus had suffered a “mild ischemia” - a kind of stroke.

“The rumours are false,” Alessandro Gisotti, director ad interim of the Press Office of the Holy See, confirmed to the Catholic Herald on Tuesday.

Archbishop Georg Gänswein, Benedict’s personal secretary, called the rumors “fake news,” Edward Pentin reported on Twitter.
 ::snipping3::


Title: Re: Pope Benedict RESIGNING
Post by: grace-land on June 28, 2019, 08:02:09 PM
https://www.catholicnewsagency.com/news/benedict-xvi-the-churchs-unity-is-stronger-than-internal-conflicts-39329

Benedict XVI: The Church’s unity is stronger than internal conflicts
By Courtney Grogan

Vatican City, Jun 28, 2019 / 04:51 am (CNA).- Pope Emeritus Benedict XVI said in an article published Friday that the unity of the Church has always prevailed over internal struggles and affirmed that there is currently only one pope.

“The Pope is one, it is Francis,” Pope Emeritus Benedict XVI said in an interview with an Italian magazine published by Corriere Della Sera June 28.

“The unity of the Church has always been in danger, for centuries,” Benedict said. “It has been for all its history. Wars, internal conflicts, centrifugal forces, threats of schisms.”

“In the end the awareness that the Church is and must remain united has always prevailed. Its unity has always been stronger than internal struggles and wars,” the pope emeritus explained.

Italian journalist Massimo Franco interviewed Benedict XVI in the Vatican gardens on the feast of Corpus Cristi June 23, but only published a few direct quotes in his five-page magazine article about the meeting.
 ::snipping3::
“Italy has always been a beautiful country, but a bit chaotic,” Benedict said softly and slowly, according to Franco, who noted that 92 year-old former pontiff showed “an enviable speed of thought.”

June 29 will mark the 68th ordination anniversary of Pope Benedict, then Joseph Ratzinger, to the priesthood. The pope emeritus plans to spend the summer peacefully with the usual visit of his brother Georg and few private meetings with guests for breakfast or lunch, according to ACI Stampa.
____________

Photo at the link below--
https://twitter.com/roccopalmo

Rocco Palmo Retweeted 
Vatican News‏Verified account @VaticanNews · Jun 27 
Pope Emeritus Benedict XVI is seen in the Vatican Gardens, in a recent photo published by the Italian newspaper, Corriere della Sera


Title: Re: Pope Benedict RESIGNING
Post by: grace-land on June 30, 2019, 04:25:12 PM
https://www.lifesitenews.com/news/benedict-xvi-asserts-francis-is-pope-in-new-interview
Fri Jun 28, 2019 - 8:46 pm EST
Benedict XVI asserts Francis is pope in new interview
 (https://assets.lifesitenews.com/images/made/images/remote/https_www.lifesitenews.com/images/local/Pope_Benedict_xvi_460_300_75_s_c1.jpg)
VATICAN CITY, June 29, 2019 (LifeSiteNews) — Concerned for Church unity, the pope emeritus, Benedict XVI, has stated in a new interview that Pope Francis is the only pope.

Massimo Franco, a reporter for Italy’s Corriere della Sera newspaper, published an Italian-language interview with Benedict XVI that was conducted in the Vatican gardens. According to the Catholic News Agency (CNA), the pope emeritus, 92, asserted that Pope Francis is the only Roman pontiff.

“The Pope is one; [he] is Francis,” he is reported to have said.
 ::snipping3::


Title: Re: Pope Benedict RESIGNING
Post by: grace-land on July 01, 2019, 01:24:32 PM
Photo at the link

https://twitter.com/EdwardPentin?ref_src=twsrc%5Egoogle%7Ctwcamp%5Eserp%7Ctwgr%5Eauthor

Edward Pentin Retweeted 
U.S. in Holy See‏Verified account @USinHolySee · 6h 6 hours ago 
Ambassador @CallyGingrich and Speaker @NewtGingrich were deeply honored to have a private audience with Pope Emeritus Benedict XVI in Vatican City. #USHolySee35


Title: Re: Pope Benedict RESIGNING
Post by: grace-land on July 26, 2019, 01:43:30 PM
https://www.vaticannews.va/en/pope/news/2019-07/pope-emeritus-benedict-xvi-summer-residence-visit-castelli.html

Pope emeritus Benedict XVI visits papal summer residence near Rome
26 July 2019, 14:18
(https://www.vaticannews.va/content/dam/vaticannews/multimedia/2019/07/24/11.jpg/_jcr_content/renditions/cq5dam.thumbnail.cropped.250.141.jpeg)
A file photo of Pope emeritus Benedict XVI in the apostolic gardens in Castel Gandolfo
Pope emeritus Benedict XVI makes an afternoon visit to the papal summer residence at Castel Gandolfo, praying the rosary in its beautiful gardens.
By Devin Watkins

He passed many a summer evening in the quiet and relative cool of the gardens behind the papal residence at Castel Gandolfo during his time on the Chair of Peter.

On Thursday evening, Pope emeritus Benedict XVI relived those peaceful moments with a quick trip to the Alban Hills outside Rome.

Prayerful evening stroll and supper

According to the Director of the Holy See Press Office, Matteo Bruni, the Pope emeritus stopped off first at the Apostolic Palace of Castel Gandolfo to pray the Rosary while strolling through its spacious gardens.

Benedict XVI spent most of his summers as Pope in the papal residence there, enjoying the area’s slightly cooler temperatures compared to the sweltering heat in central Rome.

He would usually stay for the months of July and August, holding the Sunday Angelus prayer in the square in front of the palace.

After his Thursday evening walk, the Pope emeritus stopped off at the Sanctuary of Our Lady of Sandstone in nearby Rocca di Papa.

Then he had dinner at with Bishop Raffaello Martinelli at the bishop’s residence in Frascati.

It was precisely Bishop Martinelli who had invited the Pope emeritus for supper.
 ::snipping3::
https://zenit.org/articles/benedict-xvi-makes-excursion-from-vatican-to-visit-old-papal-retreat-of-castel-gandolfo/
Benedict XVI Makes Excursion from Vatican to Visit Old Papal Retreat of Castel Gandolfo 
Pope Emeritus Welcomed Invitation to Spend Afternoon and Evening in Castelli Romani
July 26, 2019 12:51•Deborah Castellano Lubov

https://cruxnow.com/vatican/2019/07/26/benedict-xvi-takes-short-trip-outside-vatican-visits-towns-outside-rome/
Benedict XVI takes short trip outside Vatican, visits towns outside Rome
Claire Giangravè   Jul 26, 2019


Title: Re: Pope Benedict RESIGNING
Post by: grace-land on August 05, 2019, 06:16:08 PM
https://www.catholicnewsagency.com/news/amid-jpii-institute-controversy-benedict-xvi-meets-with-recently-dismissed-professor-12168

Amid JPII Institute controversy, Benedict XVI meets with recently dismissed professor
(https://www.catholicnewsagency.com/images/_Melina_and_Ben_XVI.jpg?w=300)
Pope Emeritus Benedict XVI met Aug 1 with Msgr Livio Melina of the JPII Institute. Credit: Courtesy photo (Use restricted to CNA))

Vatican City, Aug 5, 2019 / 01:08 am (CNA).- Pope Emeritus Benedict XVI met last week with a recently dismissed professor of moral theology at Rome’s Pontifical John Paul II Institute, amid ongoing controversy regarding recent changes to the Institute.

Benedict XVI invited Monsignor Livio Melina to meet with him in on Aug. 1, a source close to Melina told CNA.

The pope emeritus “wanted to receive Prof. Mons. Livio Melina at a private audience. After a long discussion of the recent events at the Pontifical Institute John Paul II, he granted his blessing, expressing his personal solidarity and assuring him of his closeness in prayer.”
 ::snipping3::
https://www.lifesitenews.com/news/jpii-institute-profs-dismissed-for-interpreting-francis-in-line-with-tradition-former-president-speaks-out
Mon Aug 5, 2019 - 12:03 pm EST
JPII Institute profs dismissed for interpreting Francis in line with Tradition? Former president speaks out
Diane Montagna


Title: Re: Pope Benedict RESIGNING
Post by: grace-land on August 27, 2019, 05:23:15 PM
https://www.catholicnewsagency.com/news/benedict-responds-to-criticism-of-his-essay-on-the-church-and-the-sexual-abuse-crisis-51446

Benedict XVI responds to criticism of his essay on the Church and the sexual abuse crisis
By Anian Christoph Wimmer

Vatican City, Aug 27, 2019 / 08:49 am (CNA).- Pope emeritus Benedict XVI has responded to criticism of his essay on the abuse crisis, saying many negative reactions have confirmed his central thesis that apostasy and alienation from the Faith are at the heart of the crisis – by not even mentioning God in their critique of his essay.

In a brief statement in reaction to such criticism published in German magazine “Herder Korrespondenz,” the former pope pointed to a “general deficit” in the reactions to his essay, saying that many critical responses missed the very point he was making.

in April by Catholic News Agency, the National Catholic Register, and in the original German by CNA Deutsch as well as other media, Benedict’s essay described the impact of the sexual revolution as well as – independent from it – a collapse of moral theology in the 1960’s, before suggesting how the Church should respond by recognizing that “only obedience and love for our Lord Jesus Christ can point the way.”

Reactions to the essay have been particularly strong in Germany, where insiders say the former pope, a native Bavarian, has long been subject to sustained criticism from certain quarters.

Benedict cited the example of a critical response to his essay from a German professor of history, pointing out that while the professor’s response was four pages long, “the word God does not appear [once],” even though apostasy was the central claim of the scholar’s argument.

Such a critique of his essay thus "shows the seriousness of a situation, in which the word ‘God’ in theology even seems to be marginalized.”
 ::snipping3::
https://www.catholicnewsagency.com/news/full-text-of-benedict-xvi-the-church-and-the-scandal-of-sexual-abuse-59639
Full text of Benedict XVI essay: 'The Church and the scandal of sexual abuse'



Title: Re: Pope Benedict RESIGNING
Post by: grace-land on August 29, 2019, 09:04:21 PM
Video at the link

https://www.hollywoodreporter.com/news/two-popes-teaser-trailer-anthony-hopkins-as-pope-benedict-xvi-1235378

Anthony Hopkins Confronts Successor Over Criticism in 'The Two Popes' Teaser Trailer
11:29 AM PDT 8/29/2019  by  Katherine Schaffstall

Sidney Cole, Lisandro Fiks and Maria Ucedo round out the cast of the Fernando Meirelles-directed film.

Netflix released the teaser trailer for The Two Popes on Thursday
.

The Fernando Meirelles film follows Cardinal Bergoglio (Jonathan Pryce), who requests permission from Pope Benedict (Anthony Hopkins) to retire in 2012 after becoming frustrated with the direction of the church. Pope Benedict instead summons his harshest critic and future successor to Rome to reveal a secret that shakes the foundation of the Catholic Church. Once at the Vatican, the two very different men confront elements from their pasts in order to find common ground and forge a future for their followers around the world.

Sidney Cole, Lisandro Fiks and Maria Ucedo round out the cast.

The trailer opens with Pope Benedict XVI playing the piano for Cardinal Bergoglio, who ultimately becomes Pope Francis. The men discuss The Beatles and while Benedict says that he is familiar with the band, he mistakes their song "Eleanor Rigby" for a person.
 ::snipping3::
The film's world premiere will take place at the Telluride Film Festival. The Two Popes will be in select theaters on Nov. 27 before it's added to the streaming service on Dec. 20.

Hmmm...came across the following article from 2013:
https://www.telegraph.co.uk/news/worldnews/the-pope/9931030/Pope-Francis-run-in-with-Benedict-XVI-over-the-Prophet-Mohammed.html
Pope Francis' run-in with Benedict XVI over the Prophet Mohammed
Pope Francis came close to losing his position within the Catholic Church after he criticised his predecessor seven years ago.
By Alasdair Baverstock
10:11AM GMT 15 Mar 2013


Title: Re: Pope Benedict RESIGNING
Post by: grace-land on September 02, 2019, 09:06:16 PM
Update:  First reviews for "The Two Popes"

https://www.patheos.com/blogs/deaconsbench/2019/09/the-first-reviews-are-in-for-the-two-popes/

The first reviews are in for ‘The Two Popes’
September 2, 2019 by Deacon Greg Kandra

The movie premiered at the Telluride Film Festival this weekend. One review calls it, in its headline, “A charming buddy movie about the future of the Catholic Church.”

Make of that what you will.

Without offering a complete review, the Bible of Hollywood, Variety, did report on the premiere and noted the movie was greeted warmly with both laughter and tears:

Little did the audience at the world premiere of “The Two Popes” know that the papal two-hander is actually very funny.

No, it’s not a comedy, but the jokes and ribbing between Pope Benedict XVI (Anthony Hopkins) and the future pope, Cardinal Bergoglio (Jonathan Pryce), played well in the packed Chuck Jones’ Cinema, as did hearing Abba’s “Dancing Queen” played over footage of the College of Cardinals making its way into the Vatican for the Papal election.

In other words, director Fernando Meirelles’ film, inspired by Pope Benedict XVI’s decision to resign and subsequent transfer of power to the more progressive Cardinal Bergoglio, is not a straight drama. Although the film did earn the audience’s admiration, and some sniffles toward its end.

“I’m feeling that there’s something out of place in the world,” [Meirelles] said, before praising Pope Francis for “building bridges” during a time when certain leaders (he didn’t name names) are more interested in dividing people with “physical walls, economic walls and technical walls.”

Written by Oscar-nominated “Darkest Hour” screenwriter Anthony McCarten, Meirelles said, “This film is about tolerance and learning to listen to one another.”

From The Hollywood Reporter:
 ::snipping3::


Title: Re: Pope Benedict RESIGNING
Post by: grace-land on September 28, 2019, 07:58:40 PM
https://www.lifesitenews.com/news/students-of-pope-benedict-xvi-gather-in-rome-to-proclaim-defend-priestly-celibacy

Sat Sep 28, 2019 - 1:04 pm EST
Students of Pope Benedict XVI gather in Rome to proclaim, defend priestly celibacy
Maike Hickson

September 28, 2019 (LifeSiteNews) — Today, September 28, the Circle of Students, as well as the New Circle of Students of Joseph Ratzinger/Pope Benedict XVI, had a symposium addressing the topic of the Catholic priesthood. At the end of this symposium, they published a statement summing up some key elements of their discussion. The statement defends priestly celibacy as intimately linked with the essence of the priesthood, which is the imitation of Christ.

Additionally, the organizers published a summary of the different speeches. Both documents can be found at the end of this report.

In the final statement, the Ratzinger Circle of Students write: “One can deduce some fundamental statements regarding the priestly lifestyle, which must remain in harmony with the lifestyle of Christ himself. Only then will the ‘re-presentation of Christ’ of the priest be believable. The presence of Christ should not be limited solely to the sacramental action, either, but must be evident and at work in the daily life of the priest. This is the reason for the duty of the priest to obedience and the commitment to celibacy, as remaining single for the sake of the Kingdom — that is, a human as well as spiritual expression of the sacramental unity of the priest with Christ.”

The symposium was titled “Recent Challenges of the Ordained Ministry in the Church,” and it took place at the Augustinianum in Rome.

Most prominently, Cardinal Gerhard Müller spoke on “What are the preconditions for ordination?,” and Cardinal Kurt Koch spoke a welcoming word and the conclusion of the symposium.
 ::snipping3::


Title: Re: Pope Benedict RESIGNING
Post by: grace-land on October 01, 2019, 08:52:28 PM
https://zenit.org/articles/2019-ratzinger-prize-the-laureates-are-a-canadian-philosopher-and-an-african-theologian/

2019 Ratzinger Prize: The Laureates Are a Canadian Philosopher and an African Theologian 
October 01, 2019 15:56
(https://zenit.org/wp-content/uploads/2019/10/Fr.-Federico-Lombardi-@-Vatican-Media-150x150.png)
Fr. Federico Lombardi @ Vatican Media
Canadian philosopher and professor Charles Margrave Taylor, specialist in relations between religion and modernity, and African theologian Paul Bere, known for his initiatives in the development of Theology on the Continent, are the two laureates of the 9th edition of the “Ratzinger Prize,” which will be conferred by Pope Francis at the Vatican on November 9, 2019, announced Father Federico Lombardi, S.J., President of the Foundation’s Administrative Council.

On Monday, September 30, 2019, Father Lombardi presented the laureates and the initiatives of the Joseph Ratzinger-Benedict XVI Vatican Foundation in the Vatican’s Press Office, beside Cardinal Gianfranco Ravasi, President of the Pontifical Council for Culture and Member of the Foundation’s Scientific Committee.
 ::snipping3::


Title: Re: Pope Benedict RESIGNING
Post by: grace-land on October 05, 2019, 08:55:40 PM
Photo gallery at the link

https://www.vaticannews.va/en/vatican-city/news/2019-10/new-cardinals-visit-pope-emeritus.html

Pope emeritus to new Cardinals: Remember the value of fidelity to the Pope
05 October 2019, 18:16
(https://www.vaticannews.va/content/dam/vaticannews/agenzie/images/srv/2019/10/05/2019-10-05-concistoro-ordinario-per-la-creazione-di-tredici-card/1570290135718.JPG/_jcr_content/renditions/cq5dam.thumbnail.cropped.250.141.jpeg)
Statement to journalists from the Director of the Holy See Press Office, Matteo Bruni:

This evening, Saturday 5 October 2019, at the end of the celebration of the Ordinary Public Consistory, the Holy Father and the new Cardinals went by bus to the Mater Ecclesiae Monastery to meet with the Pope emeritus, Benedict XVI.

After a brief greeting, in which he reminded the new cardinals of the value of fidelity to the Pope, Benedict XVI, together with Pope Francis, gave them a blessing.
 ::snipping3::


Title: Re: Pope Benedict RESIGNING
Post by: grace-land on November 09, 2019, 07:23:31 PM
https://www.vaticannews.va/en/pope/news/2019-11/pope-francis-ratzinger-prize-taylor-bere.html

Pope: 2019 Ratzinger laureates teach us to engage in active dialogue with cultures
09 November 2019, 13:38

At a ceremony in the Vatican on Saturday, Pope Francis conferred the Ratzinger Prize on Canadian Catholic philosopher Charles Margrave Taylor, and Jesuit priest Father Paul Béré of Burkina Faso, a renowned scholar of Sacred Scripture.
By Robin Gomes

Although the 2019 Ratzinger Prize winners come from different continents and cultural backgrounds, Pope Francis said, they teach us that theology should "be and remain in active dialogue with cultures”, always seeking the way to God and the encounter with Christ. 
 
The Pope made the remark while conferring the 2019 Ratzinger Prize at a ceremony in the Vatican, November 9.

The Ratzinger Prize by the Joseph Ratzinger-Benedict XVI Vatican Foundation was begun in 2011 to recognize scholars whose work demonstrates a meaningful contribution to theology in the spirit of German Cardinal Joseph Ratzinger, who became Benedict XVI and is Pope Emeritus since February 2013.
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Title: Re: Pope Benedict RESIGNING
Post by: grace-land on November 29, 2019, 06:39:32 PM
Update:  The movie, "The Two Popes"

https://www.americamagazine.org/arts-culture/2019/11/27/two-popes-whats-fact-and-whats-fiction
‘The Two Popes’: What’s fact and what’s fiction?
Joseph McAuley
November 27, 2019

The release of “The Two Popes” on Nov. 27 brought renewed attention to the papacy of Benedict XVI (played by Anthony Hopkins) and the 2013 election of Pope Francis (played by Jonathan Pryce). But does the movie get the facts right? Yes and no.

Was Cardinal Bergoglio a contender at the 2005 conclave?

Yes, Francis (then Cardinal Jorge Bergoglio) was Cardinal Joseph Ratzinger’s nearest rival by the time of the third ballot. Cardinal Ratzinger (soon to be Pope Benedict XVI) was five votes shy of the required 77 necessary for election; Cardinal Bergoglio received 40 votes on the ballot (thus he was the “runner-up”).

Bergoglio was a candidate for two reasons. One, he was well-known within the Latin American hierarchy for his participation at bishops’ conferences and had a stellar reputation for his pastoral work. He gained wider notice in church circles when he became a stand-in for Cardinal Edward Egan at a Vatican synod in the days after the 9/11 attacks, when Cardinal Egan had to return to New York. His summary of the meeting on such short notice was widely praised and gained him attention. And when Ratzinger was on the cusp of election in the 2005 conclave, Cardinal Bergoglio urged his brother cardinals to throw their support to Ratzinger, thus assuring his election, to Bergoglio’s obvious relief—he got to go home to Argentina.
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Title: Re: Pope Benedict RESIGNING
Post by: grace-land on December 02, 2019, 04:44:14 PM
https://www.catholicnewsagency.com/news/benedict-xvi-reflects-on-50-years-of-the-international-theological-commission-38382

Benedict XVI reflects on 50 years of the International Theological Commission
By Courtney Mares

Vatican City, Nov 30, 2019 / 10:38 am (CNA).- Pope Emeritus Benedict XVI sent a message to the International Theological Commission this week reflecting on the theological contributions of the commission that he led for nearly half of its 50-year history.

“Only humility can find the Truth, and the Truth in turn is the foundation of Love, from which ultimately everything depends,” Benedict XVI wrote in a message read aloud to the International Theological Commission.

The pope emeritus expressed “gratitude for what has been accomplished in half a century” by the theological commission, “even with all the inadequacies of the human search.”

Benedict XVI, then Joseph Ratzinger, served as president of the International Theological Commission from 1982-2005 as prefect of the Congregation of the Doctrine of Faith under St. John Paul II.

St. Paul VI appointed Ratzinger as a member of the first International Theological Commission in 1969, along with Henri de Lubac, Karl Rahner, Yves Congar, Hans Urs von Balthasar, and 25 others.

In his message for an event at the Pontifical Lateran University Nov. 28 on the 50th anniversary of the Founding of the Commission, the pope emeritus reflected on the theologians who had been his collaborators on the first commission.
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Title: Re: Pope Benedict RESIGNING
Post by: grace-land on December 02, 2019, 04:49:54 PM
https://www.vaticannews.va/en/vatican-city/news/2019-12/benedict-caritas-veritate-anniversary.html

Pope Benedict XVI's Encyclical 'Caritas in veritate' remembered
02 December 2019, 09:00

The Dicastery for the Promotion of Integral Human Development holds an international conference honouring the 10th anniversary of Pope Benedict's encyclical "Caritas in veritate".
By Vatican News

10 years after the publication of Pope Benedict XVI’s Encyclical Caritas in veritate, the Vatican Dicastery for the Promotion of Integral Human Development (PIHD) will hold an International Conference on the theme “Theory and Praxis of Development”. The Conference will be held in the Casina Pio IV of the Pontifical Academy of Sciences in the Vatican, on Tuesday, 3 December 2019.

Caritas in veritate

Caritas in veritate is an Encyclical promulgated by Pope Benedict XVI on 29 June 2009. He wrote it about forty years after Pope St Paul VI issued the Encyclical Populorum progressio. As such, Caritas in veritate updated Paul VI’s thought not only by placing attention on the theme of “human ecology”, but also stressing that, “authentic human development concerns the whole of the person in every single dimension” (CV, 11).
Context

Providing the background for the Encyclical were various international realities present at the time: persistent poverty, hunger, exploitation, the emergence of environmental issues, globalization and planetary interdependence, the new means of communication, the growing difficulty of national governments to confront global powers and multinational companies, the financial crisis and financial institutions, etc.
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Title: Re: Pope Benedict RESIGNING
Post by: grace-land on December 03, 2019, 05:34:11 PM
https://www.vaticannews.va/en/vatican-city/news/2019-12/cardinal-turkson-the-impact-of-caritas-in-veritate-ten-years.html

Cardinal Turkson: the impact of “Caritas in veritate” after ten years
03 December 2019, 09:32

Ahead of a seminar on Pope Benedict XVI’s encyclical “Caritas in veritate”, Cardinal Peter Turkson looks at the impact of the document in the areas of ecology and integral human development.
By Vatican News

Ten years ago, Pope Benedict XVI published his third and final encyclical, Caritas in veritate, on “integral human development in charity and truth”. To mark the occasion, the Dicastery for Promoting Integral Human Development has organized a seminar on the “theory and praxis of development”, which is taking place on Tuesday in the Vatican.

Ahead of the seminar, the Prefect for the Dicastery, Cardinal Peter Turkson, offered his reflections on the impact of Caritas in veritate, especially in the fields of “ecology” and “integral human development”.

Here is the full text of Cardinal Turkson’s presentation:
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Title: Re: Pope Benedict RESIGNING
Post by: grace-land on December 03, 2019, 05:42:35 PM
Video, with English commentary and text, at the link

https://www.vaticannews.va/en/vatican-city/news/2019-12/pope-benedict-encyclical-ten-years-later-caritas-in-veritate.html
"Caritas in veritate": Pope Benedict XVI's enyclical 10 years later
03 December 2019, 17:00

The Dicastery for Promoting Integral Human Development organises an International Conference in the Vatican to explore the impact and inflluence of Pope Benedict XVI's encyclical, Caritas in veritate, ten years after its publication.

Pope Benedict XVI wrote three encyclicals. Caritas in veritate is the third.

Published on 29 June 2009, and coming forty years after Pope St. Paul VI’s Encyclical, Populorum progressio, Caritas in veritate confirms how “charity in truth” is the principal force behind the true development of every person and of all humanity.

Benedict XVI once said,  "Only with charity, illumined by reason and by faith, is it possible to achieve goals of development endowed with human and humanizing values".

These same values were at the heart of an International Conference on the theme, “Theory and Praxis of Development”, held in the Vatican on Tuesday December 3rd, and organized by the Dicastery for Promoting Integral Human Development.
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Title: Re: Pope Benedict RESIGNING
Post by: grace-land on December 20, 2019, 06:00:29 PM
https://www.catholicnewsagency.com/news/benedict-xvi-creates-foundation-for-catholic-journalism-in-germany-37698

Benedict XVI creates foundation for Catholic journalism in Germany

Würzburg, Germany, Dec 20, 2019 / 10:24 am (CNA).- In what came as a surprise to many members of the Catholic elite in Germany, Pope emeritus Benedict XVI has launched a foundation for Catholic journalism in his home country.

“I want the Catholic voice to be heard,” the retired Roman pontiff, who has resided in a Vatican monastery since his 2013 resignation, said of his decision.

Named after a weekly Catholic newspaper, the goal of the “Tagespost Foundation for Catholic Journalism” is to raise the equivalent of about $500,000 in 2020 to invest in training young journalists and to support a variety of projects, including research into issues of biomedical ethics, in Germany.

Given that the country’s tax-rich dioceses and powerful bishops’ conference are already financing a wide array of media projects and news outlets that provide training, including a dedicated Catholic journalism school based in Munich, the initiative by the pope emeritus was recognized by both supporters and critics as a strategic move to bolster orthodox Catholic reporting independent of episcopal and other influences.
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Title: Re: Pope Benedict RESIGNING
Post by: grace-land on January 07, 2020, 09:54:49 AM
https://cruxnow.com/vatican/2020/01/busy-benedict-xvi-offers-new-peek-into-physical-condition-daily-routine/

Busy Benedict XVI offers new peek into physical condition, daily routine
Elise Harris  Jan 7, 2020

ROME - As the anniversary of Benedict XVI’s historic resignation approaches, the retired pontiff has given new, brief comments to a Bavarian television station, offering a peek into what his life and condition are like seven years later.

Published on Bavarian television network BR24 Jan. 3, the 30-minute segment was conducted by German journalist Tassilo Forchheimer, who paints a picture of Benedict’s daily life, his studio, and his physical condition.

Benedict, who has generally kept a low-profile since he stepped down in 2013, was described by Forchheimer as having a “weak voice” and walking with “great difficulty,” always accompanied by his personal secretary, German Archbishop Georg Gänswein.

At one point, Forchheimer said Benedict told him that “I used to have a great voice, but now it doesn’t work.”

Gänswein himself described Benedict as having “a clear mind,” as many others who have met him have said, but “he has already lost a lot of his physical strength.”

Yet despite the toll that age has taken, Benedict, who uses a walker and who will turn 93 in April, was said to keep a “strict” schedule, beginning with Mass each morning with Gänswein and the consecrated women who attend to him in a small chapel inside the Vatican’s Mater Ecclesiae monastery, where he lives.
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Title: Re: Pope Benedict RESIGNING
Post by: grace-land on January 28, 2020, 08:55:13 PM
https://www.lifesitenews.com/news/cdl-sarah-denounces-brutal-attacks-on-benedict-over-book-defending-priestly-celibacy

Cdl Sarah denounces ‘brutal’ attacks on Benedict over book defending priestly celibacy
Mon Jan 27, 2020 - 5:07 pm EST
By Dorothy Cummings McLean

ROME, January 27, 2020 (LifeSiteNews) – Cardinal Robert Sarah has condemned the “brutality” and the “indecency” of attacks made on Pope Emeritus Benedict XVI when news of their co-authored book defending priestly celibacy emerged.

Speaking to Italian newspaper Il Foglio, which published an interview with the Guinean cardinal on January 25, Sarah said there has been “a lot of talk about utterly ridiculous aspects secondary” to the themes of the book.

“Absurd controversies, vulgar lies, and horrible humiliations have followed one another against Benedict XVI and me,” the cardinal continued.

However, it is the attacks on the former that have wounded Sarah the most.

“What breaks my heart and hurts me deeply is the brutality, the irreverence, the lack of consideration and the indecency with which Benedict XVI has been treated,” he said.
Cardinal Sarah and Pope Emeritus Benedict XVI are the co-authors of a book on challenges to the priesthood today. Entitled From the Depths of Our Hearts: Priesthood, Celibacy, and the Crisis of the Catholic Church in English, the Italian version of the book will appear in bookstores on January 30, published by Cantagalli.
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https://www.ncregister.com/daily-news/pope-emeritus-benedict-and-cardinal-sarah-collaborate (https://www.ncregister.com/daily-news/pope-emeritus-benedict-and-cardinal-sarah-collaborate)
Jan. 12, 2020
Pope Benedict Co-Authors New Book With Cardinal Sarah on the Priesthood

The book, entitled From the Depths of Our Heart, addresses the ‘dark time’ the Catholic priesthood is enduring because of Church scandals and ‘the constant questioning of their consecrated celibacy.’
Edward Pentin

https://www.vaticannews.va/en/pope/news/2020-01/a-contribution-on-priestly-celibacy-in-filial-obedience-to-pope.html (https://www.vaticannews.va/en/pope/news/2020-01/a-contribution-on-priestly-celibacy-in-filial-obedience-to-pope.html)
Editorial
A contribution on priestly celibacy in filial obedience to the Pope
13 January 2020, 13:27
A book by the Pope emeritus and the Cardinal Prefect of the Congregation for Divine Worship addresses a theme on which Pope Francis has expressed himself several times.
Andrea Tornielli

https://www.vaticannews.va/en/vatican-city/news/2020-01/book-pope-emeritus-priestly-celibacy-statement-ganswein.html (https://www.vaticannews.va/en/vatican-city/news/2020-01/book-pope-emeritus-priestly-celibacy-statement-ganswein.html)
The book on priestly celibacy: a clarification by Archbishop Gänswein
14 January 2020, 14:08

https://religionnews.com/2020/01/14/statement-from-ignatius-press-on-from-the-depths-of-our-hearts/ (https://religionnews.com/2020/01/14/statement-from-ignatius-press-on-from-the-depths-of-our-hearts/)
Statement from Ignatius Press on From the Depths of Our Hearts
January 14, 2020
RNS Press Release Distribution Service


Title: Re: Pope Benedict RESIGNING
Post by: grace-land on February 05, 2020, 08:46:14 PM
Archbishop Georg Gänswein, private secretary to pope emeritus Benedict XVI

Hmmm...
https://www.catholicnewsagency.com/news/vatican-gnswein-has-not-taken-leave-as-head-of-papal-household-21698
Vatican has 'no information' on Gänswein leave of absence report
By Hannah Brockhaus

Vatican City, Feb 5, 2020 / 08:10 am (CNA).- After a German Catholic weekly reported that Archbishop Georg Gänswein was asked to take a leave of absence from his position as head of the papal household, the Vatican has said it cannot confirm the report, and the archbishop is still in his job.

Die Tagespost reported Feb. 5 that the German archbishop had recently been asked by Pope Francis to "focus on his role as private secretary to pope emeritus Benedict XVI."

A Vatican source told CNA that the Die Tagepost report was on the mark. Gänswein has been requested to “stay away from his office [as prefect of the papal household] indefinitely,” the source said.

But the Holy See press office told CNA Wednesday that it has "no information" regarding Ganswein being on a leave of absence from the prefecture.

Regarding the archbishop's absence from papal audiences in recent weeks, the press office stated "it is due to an ordinary redistribution of the various commitments and duties of the Prefect of the Papal Household, who, as you know, is also the personal secretary of the Pope emeritus."
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https://www.lifesitenews.com/news/breaking-pope-francis-puts-archbishop-gaenswein-on-leave-report-says
Pope Francis puts Archbishop Gänswein on leave: report
German newspaper Die Tagespost reports that Pope Benedict's secretary has been placed on leave after the controversy over the celibacy book.
Wed Feb 5, 2020 - 6:50 am EST

https://www.ncronline.org/news/vatican/vatican-confirms-redistribution-duties-archbishop-g-nswein
Vatican confirms 'redistribution' of duties for Archbishop Gänswein
Feb 5, 2020
by Joshua J. McElwee



Title: Re: Pope Benedict RESIGNING
Post by: grace-land on February 06, 2020, 06:27:22 PM
Archbishop Georg Gänswein, private secretary to pope emeritus Benedict XVI

https://www.ncregister.com/blog/edward-pentin/solving-the-archbishop-gaenswein-suspension-puzzle
Feb. 6, 2020
Solving the Archbishop Gänswein Suspension Puzzle
Edward Pentin
 ::snipping3::
For the past two weeks, the archbishop has not been seen assisting Pope Francis at his audiences.

Archbishop Gänswein, although quite shocked by the decision, inside sources say, and curious to know how the job of prefect would be managed without him, agreed to the instruction.

The Pope also later refused to reinstate him, saying it would be better if he continued assisting the Pope Emeritus for the time being, and that the role of prefect would continue to be carried out in his absence by Msgr. Leonardo Sapienza, regent of the Pontifical Household.

The Vatican’s statement is therefore partially correct in the sense that Archbishop Gänswein has not been given total leave from his duties as he continues to assist Benedict and there is still a possibility he could return as prefect.

But at the moment he appears to have been given an indefinite leave from the latter, which would appear to amount to more than just an “ordinary redistribution of the various commitments and duties.”


Title: Re: Pope Benedict RESIGNING
Post by: grace-land on February 08, 2020, 06:36:04 PM
Update:  the Benedict XVI-Cardinal Sarah book, From the Depths of Our Hearts: Priesthood, Celibacy and the Crisis of the Catholic Churc

https://www.ncregister.com/daily-news/cardinal-sarah-the-priesthood-today-is-in-mortal-danger
Feb. 8, 2020
Cardinal Sarah: The Priesthood Today ‘Is in Mortal Danger’

In an exclusive English-language interview, the African cardinal discusses his new book, the status of the Catholic priesthood, and addresses those who say he opposes Pope Francis.
Edward Pentin

VATICAN CITY — Cardinal Robert Sarah has made a further impassioned plea not to weaken the mandatory celibacy rule for priests, saying it would be a catastrophe that would amount to an “attack on the Church and her mystery.”

In an exclusive Feb. 7 interview with the Register in advance of the publication later this month of the English edition of From the Depths of Our Hearts: Priesthood, Celibacy and the Crisis of the Catholic Church, his new book on the priesthood with Pope Emeritus Benedict XVI, the Guinean cardinal explains why he and Benedict wrote the book — namely to warn that separating celibacy from the priesthood, even just as an exception, would remove the priest’s imitation of Christ as spouse of the Church and turn her into a “mere human institution.”

And, in advance of next Wednesday’s release of Pope Francis’ post-apostolic exhortation on the Pan-Amazon synod, Cardinal Sarah, the prefect of the Congregation for Divine Worship and the Discipline of the Sacraments, also explains how the exception proposed at the synod is different to previous exceptions and the situation with the Eastern Churches, and he notes that even when there were married priests in the early Church, they lived chaste lives.
 ::snipping3::
But they wanted to muzzle Benedict XVI. I must confess my revolt at the slander, violence and rudeness to which he has been subjected. Benedict XVI wanted to speak to the world, but they tried to discredit his words. I know that he takes on everything that is written in this book with determination, and I know that he is delighted with its publication. He wanted to write and publicly express this joy, but they would like to prevent him from expressing it. But to recount in detail, hour by hour, these maneuvers is useless. I prefer not to dwell on these sordid machinations, for which those responsible will one day give an account before God.
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Title: Re: Pope Benedict RESIGNING
Post by: grace-land on March 07, 2020, 11:23:31 AM
Hmmm...

https://edwardpentin.co.uk/debate-intensifies-over-benedict-xvis-resignation-and-role-as-pope-emeritus/

Debate Intensifies Over Benedict XVI’s Resignation and Role as Pope Emeritus
07/03/2020 Edward Pentin

VATICAN CITY — Seven years have passed since Benedict XVI’s resignation but discussion over the precise role of a “Pope Emeritus” and the permitted extent of his influence has not only continued but increased in intensity.

Polemics over this contentious issue came to a head in January after Benedict XVI’s unexpected intervention a month before the release of Pope Francis’ post-synodal apostolic exhortation, Querida Amazonia.

The Pope Emeritus and Cardinal Robert Sarah had written essays on the nature of the priesthood in the book From the Depths of Our Hearts: Priesthood, Celibacy and the Crisis of the Catholic Church, strongly affirming mandatory priestly celibacy in the Latin Church.
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Title: Re: Pope Benedict RESIGNING
Post by: grace-land on March 30, 2020, 05:51:03 PM
https://www.ncregister.com/blog/edward-pentin/coronavirus-latest-italys-bishops-call-for-all-churches-to-be-closed
 
Mar. 30, 2020
Coronavirus Latest From Rome: Benedict XVI and His Staff Are Well
Latest updates from the Eternal City in lockdown since March 10.
Edward Pentin
UPDATES (Rome time)
 ::snipping3::
March 30, 9.15pm

The Pope Emeritus Benedict XVI and all those living at his residence in the Vatican Gardens are well, in good spirits, and have full trust in the Lord, a source very close to the residence has told the Register.

The source said all those at the Mater Ecclesiae Monastery are following closely the reported guidelines on account of the coronavirus pandemic, and living as if in a “lockdown cloister” but they had not lost their “calm and good spirits and have full trust in the Lord.”
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Title: Re: Pope Benedict RESIGNING
Post by: grace-land on May 04, 2020, 11:09:52 AM
"...authoritative biography, titled Benedikt XVI: Ein Leben (in German) and Benedict XVI The Biography: Volume One (in English) is scheduled for release in German May 4 and in English Nov. 17."

https://zenit.org/articles/benedict-xvi-reiterates-reasons-he-always-stated-for-resignation-in-new-interview-with-peter-seewald/
Benedict XVI Reiterates Reasons He Always Stated for Resignation in New Interview with Peter Seewald
Pope Emeritus Vehemently Denies Speculation Otherwise
May 04, 2020 14:17  Deborah Castellano Lubov

Pope Emeritus Benedict XVI has vehemently denied theories suggesting that there were other reasons he resigned as Successor of Peter, other than what he has explicitly said, and said repeatedly.

The German Pontiff was the first Pope to abdicate the role in nearly 600 years, when Gregory XII did so in 1415. And Benedict was the first one to resign voluntarily since Celestine V did so 719 years in 1294.

In Latin, on Feb. 11, 2013, the 85-year-old Pontiff surprised the world, after having led the universal Church for nearly 8 years, announced he would be resigning. The Sede Vacante officially went into effect at 8 pm Rome time on Feb. 28.

The Pope Emeritus’ comments were from an interview he granted German author, Peter Seewald, with whom he has done various ‘interview-books,’ if you will, including Light of the World, during his pontificate, and The Last Testament, afterward.

This interview appears within Seewald’s most recent work, which is an extensive biography of Ratzinger, which had been gifted to the Pope Emeritus for his 93rd birthday on April 16th.

In German on the Katolisch.de website, there are some excerpts from the interview, in which Benedict retains that his frail health remains why he stepped down.
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Title: Re: Pope Benedict RESIGNING
Post by: grace-land on May 04, 2020, 11:15:09 AM
"...authoritative biography, titled Benedikt XVI: Ein Leben (in German) and Benedict XVI The Biography: Volume One (in English) is scheduled for release in German May 4 and in English Nov. 17."

https://www.lifesitenews.com/news/pope-benedict-links-dominance-of-homosexual-marriage...abortion-to-spiritual-power-of-anti-Christ
Pope Benedict links dominance of ‘homosexual marriage…abortion’ to spiritual power of ‘Anti-Christ’
Fri May 1, 2020 - 6:42 pm EST

May 1, 2020 (LifeSiteNews) – Pope Emeritus Benedict XVI linked the dominance of “homosexual marriage” and “abortion” in the world — such that it brooks no dissent without fear of punishment — to the “spiritual power of the Anti-Christ” in a new biography.

“One hundred years ago,” Benedict stated in the biography by Peter Seewald, “everybody would have considered it to be absurd to speak of a homosexual marriage. Today, one is being excommunicated by society if one opposes it.” The same applies to “abortion and to the creation of human beings in the laboratory,” Benedict added.

“Modern society is in the middle of formulating an anti-Christian creed, and if one opposes it, one is being punished by society with excommunication,” he went on to say. “The fear of this spiritual power of the Anti-Christ is then only more than natural, and it really needs the help of prayers on the part of an entire diocese and of the Universal Church in order to resist it.”
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Title: Re: Pope Benedict RESIGNING
Post by: grace-land on May 04, 2020, 11:26:41 AM
"...authoritative biography, titled Benedikt XVI: Ein Leben (in German) and Benedict XVI The Biography: Volume One (in English) is scheduled for release in German May 4 and in English Nov. 17." https://www.lifesitenews.com/news/pope-benedict-links-dominance-of-homosexual-marriage...abortion-to-spiritual-power-of-anti-Christ

https://www.lifesitenews.com/blogs/pope-benedicts-biographer-leftist-cardinal-tried-to-stop-ratzingers-2005-papal-election
Pope Benedict’s biographer: Leftist cardinal tried to stop Ratzinger’s 2005 papal election
It has its own significance that a close collaborator of Pope Benedict XVI has now described the activities of the Sankt Gallen Group.
Fri May 1, 2020 - 2:24 pm EST

May 1, 2020 (LifeSiteNews) – Peter Seewald – a convert to Catholicism who co-authored several books with Pope Benedict XVI – is about to publish an authoritative more than 1,000-page long biography of the Pope emeritus. To be released on May 4, it recounts the 2005 election of then-Cardinal Joseph Ratzinger, at which Cardinal Carlo Maria Martini, the head of the so-called “Sankt Gallen Group,” tried to forestall the election of Ratzinger as new Pope. While some of this has been known before, it comes now from someone close to Pope Benedict.

LifeSite published last year a book review of The Election of Pope Francis, Gerald O'Connell's detailed history of the 2013 conclave that elected Jorge Mario Bergoglio as Pope Francis. In it, some details were presented regarding the 2005 conclave, including the fact that the progressivist Sankt Gallen Group already then supported the election of Bergoglio. Martini was the head of this group, to which also belonged Cardinals Godfried Danneels, Walter Kasper, Karl Lehmann, and Cormac Murphy-O’Connor. Seewald now adds his own contribution to this important part of Church history. LifeSite has received a review copy of this new book; the German newspaper Tagespost already pre-published this specific chapter on the 2005 conclave.
 ::snipping3::


Title: Re: Pope Benedict RESIGNING
Post by: grace-land on May 07, 2020, 05:38:53 PM
"...authoritative biography, titled Benedikt XVI: Ein Leben (in German) and Benedict XVI The Biography: Volume One (in English) is scheduled for release in German May 4 and in English Nov. 17." https://www.lifesitenews.com/news/pope-benedict-links-dominance-of-homosexual-marriage...abortion-to-spiritual-power-of-anti-Christ

https://cruxnow.com/vatican/2020/05/in-new-biography-pope-benedict-says-world-threatened-by-humanism/
In new biography, Pope Benedict says world threatened by humanism
Catholic News Service  May 4, 2020

MUNICH - In a newly published biography, Retired Pope Benedict XVI said the Catholic Church is threatened by a “worldwide dictatorship of seemingly humanist ideologies.” He cited same-sex marriage, abortion and the “creation of humans in the laboratory” as examples.
 ::snipping3::
In the interview, which had not been published before, the former pope said he had written a spiritual testament. This will presumably not be revealed until after his death, KNA reported. The pope did not comment on its contents.

He also explained the reasons for his resignation as pope in 2013. He denied that it was because of corruption in the Vatican or the “Vatileaks” scandal. Instead, he said it had become increasingly clear to him that, in addition to possible dementia, “other forms of insufficient ability to hold office properly are also possible.”

In this context, Pope Benedict revealed that he, like Sts. Paul VI and John Paul II, had signed a conditional declaration of resignation “in the event of illness that rendered the proper performance of duties impossible.” He did this “relatively early” in his pontificate, he told Seewald.
 ::snipping3::


Title: Re: Pope Benedict RESIGNING
Post by: grace-land on May 15, 2020, 06:33:42 PM
https://www.vaticannews.va/en/pope/news/2020-05/pope-emeritus-benedict-xvi-mercy-jpii-birth-centenary.html

The Pope emeritus’ words on mercy in Saint John Paul II
15 May 2020, 11:30

Pope emeritus Benedict XVI sends a letter to the Bishops of Poland for the birth centenary of his predecessor, Pope St. John Paul II.
By Vatican News

"The whole of the Pope’s life was centered on subjectively assimilating the objective center of the Christian faith – the teaching of salvation – and allowing others to accept it.”
Pope emeritus Benedict XVI wrote those words in a letter for the centenary of the birth of Saint John Paul II.
  ::snipping3::
https://www.catholicnewsagency.com/news/benedict-xvi-hails-john-paul-ii-as-liberating-restorer-of-church-26535
Benedict XVI hails John Paul II as ‘liberating restorer’ of Church

CNA Staff, May 15, 2020 / 03:00 am MT (CNA).- John Paul II was a “liberating restorer of the Church” in the turbulent years after the Second Vatican Council, Benedict XVI has said in a letter marking the 100th anniversary of the saint’s birth.

In a message to Cardinal Stanisław Dziwisz, John Paul II’s personal secretary, the Pope emeritus said that the Polish pope had faced “an almost impossible task” when John Paul was elected to the papacy in 1978.
  ::snipping3::
https://www.catholicnewsagency.com/news/full-text-benedict-xvis-letter-marking-st-john-paul-iis-birth-centenary-20198
Full text: Benedict XVI's letter marking St. John Paul II's birth centenary

Vatican City, May 15, 2020 / 03:10 am MT (CNA).- Here is the full text of Pope emeritus Benedict XVI's letter marking the centenary of the birth of St. John Paul II. The English translation of this letter, dated May 4, was released May 15 by the Polish bishops' conference:

100 years ago, on May 18th, Pope John Paul II was born in the small Polish town of Wadowice.
 ::snipping3::


Title: Re: Pope Benedict RESIGNING
Post by: grace-land on May 28, 2020, 07:19:31 PM
https://www.ncregister.com/daily-news/peter-seewalds-spiritual-and-historical-journey-with-the-pope-emeritus

May. 28, 2020
Peter Seewald’s ‘Spiritual and Historical Journey’ With the Pope Emeritus
The German journalist discusses Benedict XVI: The Biography
Edward Pentin

In writing his definitive and monumental new work on Benedict XVI, biographer Peter Seewald discovered “countless” new elements to the pope emeritus’ life and character, including that his role in the Second Vatican Council was “not marginal but enormously significant.”

In this May 21 email interview with the Register, Seewald explains how the book, Benedict XVI: The Biography — running 1,184 pages in the German version  — juxtaposes Joseph Ratzinger’s life and teaching with the dramatic and stirring events of the 20th century.

He also explains the genesis of the book, as well as Benedict’s relationship with Francis, the advice Benedict offers for dealing with the crisis of faith in the Church and the world today, and why Benedict decided to write a spiritual testament to be published after his death. Seewald also provides an update on how Benedict is faring during this time of pandemic.

The English edition of the first volume of Benedict XVI: The Biography will be published in November by Bloomsbury Continuum.
 ::snipping3::


Title: Re: Pope Benedict RESIGNING
Post by: grace-land on June 18, 2020, 05:01:14 PM
https://www.vaticannews.va/en/vatican-city/news/2020-06/benedict-xvi-visits-germany-brother-sick-ratzinger.html

Benedict XVI visits his sick brother in Germany
18 June 2020, 15:13

Pope emeritus Benedict XVI, traveled to Regensburg today to be alongside his brother Georg, accompanied by Archbishop Gänswein, the vice commander of the Vatican Gendarmerie, and a small group of health care professionals and collaborators.

UPDATED
By Alessandro de Carolis

Pope emeritus Benedict left the quiet of the Mater Ecclesiae monastery in the Vatican for a visit to Germany to be close to his brother, Georg. He is 96 and in poor health. The emeritus pontiff traveled Thursday morning accompanied by his personal secretary Archbishop Georg Gänswein; his doctor and his nurse; a collaborator from the Memores Domini community; and the vice commander of the Vatican Gendarmerie.

A statement from the Diocese of Regensburg indicated that Benedict arrived in Munich at 11:45. He was greeted by Bishop Rudolf Voderholzer, who accompanied him to Regensberg, where he will reside at the diocesan seminary. The statement from the diocese asked the faithful to respect the wishes of the two brothers, who requested that the "deeply personal meeting remain private." Hence no public appearances are anticipated.

According to Matteo Bruni, the Director of the Holy See Press Office, Benedict will remain in Germany for “as long as necessary."
 ::snipping3::
https://www.catholicnewsagency.com/news/benedict-xvi-visits-his-ailing-brother-in-germany-92610
Benedict XVI visits his ailing brother in Germany

https://zenit.org/articles/just-in-benedict-xvi-leaves-vatican-to-visit-sick-brother-in-regensburg-2/
JUST IN: Benedict XVI Leaves Vatican to Visit Sick Brother in Regensburg
Matteo Bruni Confirms to ZENIT English
June 18, 2020 15:16  Deborah Castellano Lubov


Title: Re: Pope Benedict RESIGNING
Post by: grace-land on June 18, 2020, 10:40:50 PM
https://www.thetablet.co.uk/news/13066/emeritus-pope-visits-seriously-ill-brother-in-regensburg

18 June 2020, The Tablet
Emeritus Pope visits seriously ill brother in Regensburg
by Christa Pongratz-Lippitt

Emeritus Pope Benedict XVI has left the Vatican for the first time since he resigned in order to visit his seriously ill brother in Regensburg

Benedict XVI, 93, who stood down in 2013, decided to visit his brother Georg, 96, in Bavaria at short notice after consulting with Pope Francis.

Vatican spokesman Matteo Bruni told the German press agency dpa that the emeritus Pope had left the Vatican by plane this morning on a purely private visit. He stay in Regensburg “as long as necessary”.
 ::snipping3::

Photos at the link below--

https://www.dailymail.co.uk/news/article-8436251/Emeritus-Pope-Benedict-Germany-brother.html
Retired Pope Benedict is seen on rare trip out of the Vatican as he visits his ailing 96-year-old brother in his native Germany
Published: 09:26 EDT, 18 June 2020 | Updated: 18:01 EDT, 18 June 2020


Title: Re: Pope Benedict RESIGNING
Post by: grace-land on June 19, 2020, 01:14:04 PM
https://www.catholicnewsagency.com/news/benedict-xvi-celebrates-mass-with-his-ill-brother-on-feast-of-the-sacred-heart-48486

Benedict XVI celebrates Mass with his ill brother on feast of the Sacred Heart

CNA Staff, Jun 19, 2020 / 02:32 am MT (CNA).- Pope emeritus Benedict XVI will celebrate Mass with his ailing brother on the feast of the Sacred Heart during his first full day in Germany Friday.

A June 19 statement from the Diocese of Regensburg said that after Benedict XVI arrived from Rome at noon on Thursday he immediately visited his 96-year-old brother, Msgr. Georg Ratzinger.

The brothers celebrated Mass together at the house in Regensburg and the pope emeritus then traveled to the diocesan seminary in the afternoon to rest. In the evening, he returned to see his brother.

The diocese said: “For the first morning in his old homeland, an authentic Bavarian breakfast awaited the pope emeritus in the seminary. There were pretzels, which Archbishop Georg Gänswein, who accompanied him, was also pleased about.”

“In the course of the morning the two brothers will celebrate together a high mass for today’s feast of the Sacred Heart.”

The diocese added that “afterwards there will be apple strudel,” a popular pastry in Bavaria and Austria.
 ::snipping3::


Title: Re: Pope Benedict RESIGNING
Post by: grace-land on June 20, 2020, 05:46:59 PM
https://www.catholicnewsagency.com/news/benedict-xvi-to-pray-at-his-familys-gravesite-in-germany-46586

Benedict XVI to pray at his family's gravesite in Germany

CNA Staff, Jun 20, 2020 / 08:24 am MT (CNA).- Pope emeritus Benedict XVI will visit his family’s gravesite and his former home in Pentling, Germany, in the afternoon on Saturday.

According to a June 20 statement from the Diocese of Regensburg, the former pope will visit the residence where he lived as “Professor Ratzinger” from 1970 to 1977.

He last time seeing the home was during his 2006 pastoral trip to Bavaria. Pentling is just outside Regensburg.

The diocese said Benedict XVI will then visit the Ziegetsdorf cemetery to spend some time in prayer at the graves of his parents and sister.

The former pope has been in Regensburg since June 18. He flew there from Rome to see his 96-year-old brother, Msgr. Georg Ratzinger, who is in seriously poor health.

Benedict’s father died in 1959 and his mother in 1963. His older sister Maria, who never married, managed his household until her death in 1991.
 ::snipping3::


Title: Re: Pope Benedict RESIGNING
Post by: grace-land on June 21, 2020, 11:13:57 AM
https://www.catholicnewsagency.com/news/benedict-xvi-to-return-to-rome-june-22-after-visit-with-brother-georg-ratzinger-in-bavaria-germany-58452

Benedict XVI to return to Rome June 22 after visit with ailing brother in Germany

CNA Staff, Jun 21, 2020 / 05:32 am MT (CNA).- Pope emeritus Benedict XVI will return to Rome and the Vatican on Monday, according to the Diocese of Regensburg.

The former pope has been in Bavaria since June 18. He flew there from Rome to see his 96-year-old brother, Msgr. Georg Ratzinger, who is in poor health.

The pope emeritus is staying in the seminary of the Diocese of Regensburg during his visit. At the time of his arrival, the date of his return journey had not been set.

According to Regensburg diocese, on Sunday morning the 93-year-old Benedict celebrated Mass with his brother in Luzengasse. “And – if the strength allows – again in the second half of the day,” the diocese wrote. Benedict plans to take the rest of the day off.

Archbishop Nikola Eterović, the apostolic nuncio in Germany, met the pope emeritus in Regensburg on Saturday. On Sunday morning in the Regensburg Cathedral, Eterović said “it is an honor to greet the retired pope in Germany again, even in this difficult family situation.”

The nuncio said his impression during his meeting with Benedict was “that he feels good here in Regensburg.”

According to the diocese, Eterović thanked “the bishop, his co-workers, the Catholics in this beautiful city, but also all residents for this respect and friendship, so that the retired pope feels at home in this city and here in Bavaria. We are all connected as members of the Catholic Church. It’s a big family all over the world.”
 ::snipping3::


Title: Re: Pope Benedict RESIGNING
Post by: grace-land on June 22, 2020, 06:27:15 PM
https://www.catholicnewsagency.com/news/benedict-xvi-returns-to-rome-after-visiting-ill-brother-in-germany-72851

Benedict XVI returns to Rome after visiting ill brother in Germany
By Courtney Mares

Vatican City, Jun 22, 2020 / 06:00 am MT (CNA).- Pope emeritus Benedict XVI arrived back in Rome Monday after a four-day trip to Germany to visit his ailing brother.

The Diocese of Regensburg reported June 22 that 93-year-old Benedict XVI said goodbye to his 96-year-old brother, Msgr. Georg Ratzinger, who is in poor health, before departing for Munich airport.

“It is perhaps the last time that the two brothers, Georg and Joseph Ratzinger, will see each other in this world,” the Regensburg diocese said in an earlier statement.

Benedict XVI was accompanied on the journey to the airport by Bishop Rudolf Voderholzer of Regensburg. Before the pope emeritus boarded an Italian air force plane he was greeted by Bavaria’s premier Markus Söder. The Süddeutsche Zeitung, a German daily newspaper, quoted Söder as saying that the encounter was a moment of “joy and melancholy.”

The pope emeritus landed in Rome at 1 p.m. local time, according to Vatican News. Benedict XVI and his entourage arrived 45 minutes later at the Mater Ecclesiae monastery, his residence in the Vatican.

Speaking a press conference in Regensburg June 22, Bishop Rudolf Voderholzer praised the bond between the two brothers.
 ::snipping3::
https://www.vaticannews.va/en/pope/news/2020-06/pope-emeritus-benedict-xvi-returns-to-vatican.html
Pope emeritus Benedict XVI returns to the Vatican
22 June 2020, 14:00

Photos and video at the link below
https://cruxnow.com/vatican/2020/06/benedict-xvi-back-at-vatican-after-german-visit-to-brother/
Benedict XVI back at Vatican after German visit to brother
Associated Press  Jun 22, 2020


Title: Re: Pope Benedict RESIGNING
Post by: grace-land on July 01, 2020, 02:39:34 PM
RIP Monsignor Georg Ratzinger  ::MonkeyAngel::

Photo gallery at the link

https://www.vaticannews.va/en/church/news/2020-07/georg-ratzinger-death-benedict-xvi-brothers.html
Georg Ratzinger, brother of Pope emeritus Benedict, dies in Regensburg
01 July 2020, 12:19

The elderly Bavarian priest had been hospitalized in Regensburg, in Bavaria, where he lived and where he received his brother Joseph’s final visit, with whom he had been ordained on the same day. (photo album included)
By Vatican News

Georg Ratzinger, the older brother of the Pope emeritus, died Wednesday morning, aged 96. He had been hospitalized in Regensburg, the city where he lived the greater part of his long life. With his death, Joseph Ratzinger – who had desired to make the journey by plane to see his dying brother one last time – remains the only member of the family still alive. The two brothers – one a musician and kappellmeister of a famous choir, the other first a theologian and then a bishop, cardinal, and finally pope - were ordained together on the same day, and were always closely united.
 ::snipping3::
https://cruxnow.com/vatican/2020/07/retired-popes-elder-brother-georg-ratzinger-dies-at-96/
Retired pope’s elder brother, Georg Ratzinger, dies at 96
David RisingJul 1, 2020  ASSOCIATED PRESS


Title: Re: Pope Benedict RESIGNING
Post by: grace-land on July 02, 2020, 07:23:22 PM
https://www.vaticannews.va/en/pope/news/2020-07/pope-francis-sends-condolence-letter-to-pope-emeritus-benedict.html

Pope Francis praying for Pope emeritus Benedict XVI in his time of loss
02 July 2020, 12:41

Pope Francis writes a letter to his predecessor, Pope Emeritus Benedict XVI, following the death of his brother Georg, assuring him of his spiritual closeness and of his prayers.
By Vatican News
 ::snipping3::
Pope Francis’s letter
To his Holiness

Benedict XVI
Pope emeritus

You had the sensitivity to be the first to inform me of the news of the death of your beloved brother, Monsignor Georg. I wish to renew my deepest sympathy and spiritual closeness to you in this moment of sorrow.

I assure you of my prayers of suffrage for the late and lamented, that the Lord of life, in His merciful goodness, may welcome him into heaven and grant him the reward prepared for faithful servants of the Gospel.

I pray also for you, Your Holiness, invoking the Father, through the intercession of the Blessed Virgin Mary, for the support of Christian hope and tender divine consolation.
Always united in faith in the Risen Christ, the source of hope and peace,

Filially and fraternally,
Francis

https://www.ncregister.com/blog/edward-pentin/pope-francis-expresses-condolences-to-benedict-xvi
JUL. 2, 2020
Pope Francis Expresses Condolences to Benedict XVI on Death of Brother
Regensburg diocese announces funeral of Msgr. Georg Ratzinger will take place on July 8 attended by Archbishop Georg Gänswein.
Edward Pentin



Title: Re: Pope Benedict RESIGNING
Post by: grace-land on July 03, 2020, 08:33:54 PM
 ::monkeyflag3::
Video, in English, at the link

https://www.catholicnewsagency.com/news/god-bless-america---pope-john-paul-ii-pope-benedict-xvi-and-pope-francis-speak-to-the-united-states-30234
‘God bless America’ - Popes speak to the United States

CNA Staff, Jul 3, 2020 / 11:20 am MT (CNA).- Pope John Paul II, Pope Benedict XVI, and Pope Francis each made apostolic visitations to the United States during the course of their pontificates. As the United States celebrates Independence Day, CNA remembers words to America from each of those popes:
 ::snipping3::
Pope Benedict XVI

South Lawn of the White House, April 16, 2008

I am happy to be here as a guest of all Americans. I come as a friend, a preacher of the Gospel and one with great respect for this vast pluralistic society. America’s Catholics have made, and continue to make, an excellent contribution to the life of their country. As I begin my visit, I trust that my presence will be a source of renewal and hope for the Church in the United States, and strengthen the resolve of Catholics to contribute ever more responsibly to the life of this nation, of which they are proud to be citizens.

From the dawn of the Republic, America’s quest for freedom has been guided by the conviction that the principles governing political and social life are intimately linked to a moral order based on the dominion of God the Creator. The framers of this nation’s founding documents drew upon this conviction when they proclaimed the “self-evident truth” that all men are created equal and endowed with inalienable rights grounded in the laws of nature and of nature’s God.

The course of American history demonstrates the difficulties, the struggles, and the great intellectual and moral resolve which were demanded to shape a society which faithfully embodied these noble principles. In that process, which forged the soul of the nation, religious beliefs were a constant inspiration and driving force, as for example in the struggle against slavery and in the civil rights movement. In our time too, particularly in moments of crisis, Americans continue to find their strength in a commitment to this patrimony of shared ideals and aspirations.
__

Freedom is not only a gift, but also a summons to personal responsibility. Americans know this from experience – almost every town in this country has its monuments honoring those who sacrificed their lives in defense of freedom, both at home and abroad. The preservation of freedom calls for the cultivation of virtue, self-discipline, sacrifice for the common good and a sense of responsibility towards the less fortunate. It also demands the courage to engage in civic life and to bring one’s deepest beliefs and values to reasoned public debate.

In a word, freedom is ever new. It is a challenge held out to each generation, and it must constantly be won over for the cause of good (cf. Spe Salvi, 24). Few have understood this as clearly as the late Pope John Paul II. In reflecting on the spiritual victory of freedom over totalitarianism in his native Poland and in eastern Europe, he reminded us that history shows, time and again, that “in a world without truth, freedom loses its foundation”, and a democracy without values can lose its very soul (cf. Centesimus Annus, 46).

Those prophetic words in some sense echo the conviction of President Washington, expressed in his Farewell Address, that religion and morality represent “indispensable supports” of political prosperity.
 ::snipping3::


Title: Re: Pope Benedict RESIGNING
Post by: grace-land on July 08, 2020, 06:45:31 PM
 ::MonkeyAngel::
https://www.vaticannews.va/en/pope/news/2020-07/georg-ratzinger-brother-of-pope-emeritus-benedict-xvi-buried-in.html
Pope emeritus Benedict XVI pens emotional letter for funeral of his brother, Georg Ratzinger
08 July 2020, 15:38

During the funeral of Georg Ratzinger, Pope emeritus Benedict XVI writes an emotional letter highlighting his brother’s vocation as priest and musician.
By Vatican News

The funeral of Father Georg Ratzinger, the brother of Pope emeritus Benedict XVI, was held on Wednesday at the Cathedral of Saint Peter in Regensburg, Germany.

Fr. Georg Ratzinger died at the age of 96 on 1 July after being hospitalized in Regensburg, the city where he lived the greater part of his life. His death came just over a week after the Pope emeritus made a visit in mid-June to Regensburg to be with his ailing brother.

Following his brother's death, Pope Francis sent a personal note of condolences to his predecessor, assuring the Pope emeritus of his prayers both for his brother and for Benedict himself.

During the funeral celebrated by Bishop Rudolf Voderholzer of Regensburg, Archbishop Georg Gänswein read an emotional letter written by Pope emeritus Benedict XVI for the occasion.
 ::snipping3::
Photos at the link--
https://cruxnow.com/church-in-europe/2020/07/retired-pope-benedict-follows-his-brothers-funeral-virtually/
Retired Pope Benedict follows his brother’s funeral virtually
Catholic News Service  Jul 8, 2020

Photos at the link--
https://twitter.com/BistumReg


Title: Re: Pope Benedict RESIGNING
Post by: grace-land on July 28, 2020, 08:11:51 PM
https://www.catholicnewsagency.com/news/benedict-xvi-praises-glorious-music-of-bach-in-festival-message-43588

Benedict XVI praises “glorious music” of Bach in festival message

CNA Staff, Jul 28, 2020 / 08:00 am MT (CNA).- Pope emeritus Benedict XVI has praised the “glorious music” of Johann Sebastian Bach in a message to a festival in Germany.

In a statement released July 27 by the organizers of the 2021 Bach Festival in Leipzig, Benedict XVI noted that the festival would include a cycle called “Bach’s Messiah,” chronicling the life of Jesus through the composer’s music.

“The particularity of this festival is that it has merged the works of Bach relating to the life and work of Jesus Christ of Nazareth into a whole, thus giving us a kind of ‘Messiah’ by Bach,” he wrote.

The Bach Festival will be held on June 12-15, 2021, with the theme of “Redemption.” The “Bach’s Messiah” cycle will consist of 11 concerts over four days in the churches of Leipzig, the city in eastern Germany where the Lutheran composer died in 1750. The cycle will include 33 Bach cantatas, the St. Matthew Passion, and the Christmas, Easter and Ascension Oratorios.

The cycle will be framed by two performances of the oratorio “Messiah” by George Frideric Handel, one of which will take place in Halle Cathedral, the first place where the Halle-born composer worked, as part of the Handel Festival 2021, reported CNA Deutsch, CNA’s German language news partner.

While planning the cycle, artistic director Michael Maul read Benedict XVI’s trilogy “Jesus of Nazareth,” which was published between 2007 and 2012 while he was serving as pope.

Maul entered into a correspondence with Benedict XVI, which culminated in the pope emeritus’ message. Festival organizers said that the 93-year-old told them that he wrote the text in June 2019, “as I do not know how long my health will stand the test of time.”
 ::snipping3::


Title: Re: Pope Benedict RESIGNING
Post by: grace-land on August 03, 2020, 10:21:18 AM
 :sad:
https://www.catholicnewsagency.com/news/benedict-xvi-unwell-since-visit-to-germany-15869

Benedict XVI is ill since visit to Germany
By Hannah Brockhaus

Rome Newsroom, Aug 3, 2020 / 03:21 am MT (CNA).- Pope emeritus Benedict XVI is sick with a bacterial infection and “very frail,” according to a German newspaper report.

Citing Benedict biographer Peter Seewald, German newspaper Passauer Neue Presse (PNP) reported Aug. 3 that the 93-year-old pope emeritus is suffering from facial erysipelas, or facial shingles, a bacterial infection of the skin which causes a painful, red rash.

The infection can also result in fever, headaches, and lymphedema. It is treated with antibiotics.

Seewald told PNP that Benedict has been “very frail” since his return from visiting his ailing older brother, Msgr. Georg Ratzinger, in Bavaria in June. Georg Ratzinger died July 1.

Seewald saw Benedict XVI at his Vatican home in the Mater Ecclesia monastery Aug. 1 to present him with a copy of his latest biography of the retired pope.

The journalist said despite his illness, Benedict was optimistic and stated he might take up writing again if his strength returns. Seewald also said the former pope’s voice is now “barely audible.”

PNP also reported Aug. 3 that Benedict has chosen to be buried in the former tomb of St. John Paul II in the crypt of St. Peter’s Basilica. The body of the Polish pope was moved into the upper part of the basilica when he was canonized in 2014.

Like John Paul II, Benedict XVI has written a spiritual testament which can be published after his death.
 ::snipping3::


Title: Re: Pope Benedict RESIGNING
Post by: grace-land on August 03, 2020, 02:07:26 PM
https://www.ncregister.com/blog/edward-pentin/archbishop-ganswein-pope-emeritus-benedicts-ailment-is-not-serious

AUG. 3, 2020
Archbishop Ganswein: Pope Emeritus Benedict’s Ailment Is ‘Not Serious’
The latest news of Benedict’s condition came from his biographer, Peter Seewald, who visited the Pope Emeritus over the weekend.
Edward Pentin

VATICAN CITY — The health condition of Pope Emeritus Benedict “does not give cause for particular concern, except for a 93-year-old man who is overcoming the most acute phase of a painful, but not serious, illness,” his personal secretary Archbishop Georg Gänswein said Monday.

His comments, given through the Vatican press office this evening, came in response to a report in this morning’s Passauer Neue Presse (PNP) that Benedict XVI was “seriously ill” and suffering from facial erysipelas, a bacterial infection of the skin that causes a painful, red rash.

The infection, which mostly affects infants and the elderly, can cause fever, headaches and lymphedema and is treated with antibiotics. A form of herpes or shingles, it is not considered life-threatening.

The news of Benedict’s condition came from his biographer, Peter Seewald, who visited the Pope Emeritus over the weekend to present him with a copy of his extensive new biography called Benedict XVI: A Life.
 ::snipping3::


Title: Re: Pope Benedict RESIGNING
Post by: grace-land on August 11, 2020, 01:13:46 PM
https://www.catholicnewsagency.com/news/archbishop-gnswein-benedict-xvis-illness-is-subsiding-21638

Archbishop Gänswein: Benedict XVI’s 'illness is subsiding'
By Courtney Mares

Rome Newsroom, Aug 11, 2020 / 03:30 am MT (CNA).- Benedict XVI’s personal secretary Archbishop Georg Gänswein has said that the pope emeritus’ illness is “subsiding.

In an interview with the German newspaper Südkurier, Archbishop Gänswein is reported to have said that Benedict XVI’s “illness is subsiding” and that his medication has been reduced.

Benedict XVI has been suffering from facial shingles, a bacterial infection of the skin which causes a painful, red rash. "The pain started after the death of his brother,” Gänswein told Südkurier.

"Whilst very unpleasant and painful, the illness was not life-threatening,” the archbishop said in the article published Aug. 9.

“This is pain that I do not wish for my worst enemy,” Gänswein said.

The pope’s personal secretary gave the interview with German media while visiting his hometown of Riedern am Wald in the Black Forest.
 ::snipping3::


Title: Re: Pope Benedict RESIGNING
Post by: grace-land on September 08, 2020, 07:27:01 PM
https://zenit.org/2020/09/08/benedict-xvi-expresses-gratitude-in-a-letter-for-the-sympathy-he-has-received-after-the-death-of-his-brother/

Benedict XVI Expresses Gratitude in a Letter for the Sympathy He Has Received after the Death of His Brother
SEPTEMBER 08, 2020 13:58

Almost A Thousand Letters

Pope Emeritus Benedict XVI wrote a “collective letter” to all those that expressed their condolences for the death of his brother Georg. He also mentioned the painful herpes he suffered this summer.

In a letter dated August 2020, signed by Benedict XVI himself and sent to the Italian News Agency Adnkronos, he expressed gratitude for the “thousand” letters of sympathy received.

“Dear friends, after my visit to Regensburg and the death of my dear brother Georg, shortly after I received so many personal letters, which I would never have imagined, and this moved me profoundly. We have counted almost a thousand,” reads the letter.

“At the same time, however, a herpes-zoster, which began to appear the day before my departure from Regensburg, has taken forms that hindered any attempt of a personal reply on my part,” explained the Pope Emeritus.
 ::snipping3::


Title: Re: Pope Benedict RESIGNING
Post by: grace-land on September 11, 2020, 07:49:29 PM
https://www.catholicnewsagency.com/news/archbishop-gnswein-hospitalized-with-severe-kidney-problems-25914

Archbishop Gänswein hospitalized ‘with severe kidney problems’

Vatican City, Sep 11, 2020 / 05:45 am MT (CNA).- Archbishop Georg Gänswein, prefect of the papal household and personal secretary to Benedict XVI, has been hospitalized in Rome.

CNA Deutsch, CNA’s German language news partner, reported Sept. 11 that the 64-year-old had been admitted to hospital “with severe kidney problems.”

The news agency said it learned of the development Friday from sources close to the archbishop. It added that no further details were currently available.

Gänswein was born in Riedern am Wald, Germany, in 1956. In 1995, 11 years after his ordination, he left Germany for the Roman Curia, serving first at the Congregation for Divine Worship and later at the Congregation for the Doctrine of the Faith. In 2003, he became personal secretary to the future Pope Benedict XVI.
 ::snipping3::



Title: Re: Pope Benedict RESIGNING
Post by: grace-land on September 17, 2020, 05:41:02 PM
https://www.catholicnewsagency.com/news/archbishop-gnswein-better-and-grateful-for-prayers-after-hospitalization-16077

Archbishop Gänswein ‘better’ and grateful for prayers after hospitalization

CNA Staff, Sep 17, 2020 / 04:00 am MT (CNA).- Archbishop Georg Gänswein is expected to leave hospital Thursday.

Sources close to the personal secretary of Pope Emeritus Benedict XVI told CNA Deutsch, CNA’s German language news partner, that he was “better and improving steadily.”

Gänswein, 64, thanked those who had prayed for his recovery, saying: “May God reward you for your prayerful support.”

The prefect of the papal household was hospitalized with kidney pain Sept. 11. CNA Deutsch reported that he would leave hospital in Rome Sept. 17 and return to the Vatican.
 ::snipping3::


Title: Re: Pope Benedict RESIGNING
Post by: grace-land on September 17, 2020, 05:49:38 PM
https://www.vaticannews.va/en/church/news/2020-09/cardinal-nichols-reflects-on-remarkable-papal-visit-to-great-b.html

Cardinal Nichols reflects on “remarkable” Papal visit to Great Britain
17 September 2020, 14:56

Cardinal Vincent Nichols, the Archbishop of Westminster, reflects on Pope Benedict XVI’s Apostolic Visit to Great Britain which took place ten years ago this week.
By Vatican News

Ten years ago this week, from 16 to 19 September 2010, Pope Benedict XVI made a highly successful Apostolic Visit to Great Britain.

A decade on from that journey, the Cardinal Archbishop of Westminster, Vincent Nichols reflects on those four days, describing them as “remarkable in many, many ways.”

Highlights of a Papal Visit

The Cardinal recalls the many highlights that stand out in his mind.

One in particular, he writes, “was the drive down the great road approaching Buckingham Palace – The Mall – decorated on either side with papal flags and Union Jacks. Packed with people on both sides. It was a sight I thought I would never see. A warm, rapturous welcome to the Pope of Rome in this country, which has, for the last 400 years, struggled with its understanding of its relationship to the Catholic Church.”

Another memory for Cardinal Nichols was the Pope Benedict’s presence in Westminster Abbey standing with the Archbishop of Canterbury…, “an echo of that great visit of his predecessor, Pope St John Paul II in Canterbury Cathedral, signaling a great healing of an ancient wound.”
 ::snipping3::


Title: Re: Pope Benedict RESIGNING
Post by: grace-land on October 01, 2020, 07:36:54 PM
https://cruxnow.com/church-in-oceania/2020/10/australian-academic-rowland-wins-prestigious-ratzinger-prize-for-theology/

Australian academic Rowland wins prestigious Ratzinger Prize for theology
Catholic News Service  Oct 1, 2020

SYDNEY — Tracey Rowland, professor of theology at the University of Notre Dame Australia, has won the Ratzinger Prize for theology, often described as the field’s equivalent to the Nobel Peace Prize.

The award is a stunning win for the Melbourne, Australia-based academic, who is the first Australian and only the third woman to receive the prestigious award.

The Ratzinger Prize is awarded to two individuals each year regardless of their religious denomination.

Pope Francis announced Oct. 1 that Rowland would share this year’s award with Jean-Luc Marion, a French philosopher and Catholic theologian.

The prize is awarded in three areas: the study of sacred Scripture, patristics and theology.

It is presented by the Joseph Ratzinger-Benedict XVI Foundation, which was established in 2010 to support theological research and to promote studies on the theology and teaching of the retired pope.
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Title: Re: Pope Benedict RESIGNING
Post by: grace-land on October 25, 2020, 05:32:43 PM
https://www.catholicnewsagency.com/news/benedict-xvi-distances-himself-from-embattled-catholic-community-55470

Benedict XVI distances himself from embattled Catholic community

CNA Staff, Oct 25, 2020 / 02:30 pm MT (CNA).- Benedict XVI has distanced himself from a Catholic community with which he had maintained close ties for decades.

The German magazine “Herder Korrespondenz” reported Oct. 25 that the Pope Emeritus had taken the step regarding the Catholic Integrated Community.

Referring to the group by its German initials, IG, Benedict told the publication: “Obviously I was not informed about some things in the inner life of the IG, or even deceived, which I regret.”

He had given the group ecclesiastical recognition during his time as archbishop of Munich and Freising, from 1977 to 1982.
CNA Deutsch, CNA’s German-language news partner, reported that Benedict also said: “At first I did not realize that in the attempt to shape the things of daily life integrally from faith, terrible distortions of faith were also possible.”

"I deeply regret that this gave the impression that all activities of the community had been approved by the archbishop.”

The Catholic Integrated Community, founded in 1948, was intended to be, according to its own description, “a place for an enlightened and unabridged Christianity.”

The community achieved ecclesiastic recognition in 1978 by the archbishops of Paderborn and Munich -- Johannes Degenhardt and Joseph Ratzinger respectively -- and in 1985 it was established as a public association of the Christian faithful under Church law.
 ::snipping3::



Title: Re: Pope Benedict RESIGNING
Post by: grace-land on November 02, 2020, 07:27:46 PM
https://cruxnow.com/vatican/2020/11/retired-pope-declines-his-late-brothers-inheritance/

Retired pope declines his late brother’s inheritance
Catholic News Service  Nov 2, 2020

BERLIN — Retired Pope Benedict XVI has declined the inheritance of his brother Georg, who died in July, reported the German Catholic news agency KNA.

Because of this, “the estate of Georg Ratzinger goes to the Holy See,” Johannes Hofmann, dean of St. Johann Collegiate Church, told the newspaper Bild am Sonntag. This was stated in the postscript of Msgr. Ratzinger’s will, he said.

The house in Regensburg, Germany, where Msgr. Ratzinger lived belongs to St. Johann’s, the report said. The monsignor’s estate consists mainly of compositions, sheet music by the Regensburg Domspatzen choir, a small library and family photos.

Bild am Sonntag anonymously quoted a confidant of retired Pope Benedict as saying he “will certainly still receive one or two mementos.” However, he carried the memories of his brother “in his heart,” so the 93-year-old “no longer needs to accumulate material things.”
 ::snipping3::


Title: Re: Pope Benedict RESIGNING
Post by: grace-land on November 23, 2020, 09:30:28 PM
https://aleteia.org/2020/11/23/benedict-xvi-still-well-says-secretary/

Benedict XVI still well, says secretary
Kathleen N. Hattrup - published on 11/23/20

Certain media had reported that his health was serious, but Gänswein assures he's a healthy 93-year-old

In an interview last week with the Italian magazine Oggi, the personal secretary of Pope Emeritus Benedict XVI said that the pontiff continues to be healthy, albeit with the weaknesses expected from a man of 93 years of age.

“Regarding his health, it was fake news,” Archbishop Georg Gänswein said in regard to various outlets that had reported a downturn in the pope emeritus’ health.

Benedict XVI is in the condition of a person who is 93 years old. He has physical frailties, and a very weak voice, but his mind is lucid. Every day he concelebrates Mass, he prays, he still receives some visits, he reads, studies, listens to music, and manages his correspondence. Certainly, at a calm pace. He rests more often because his strength has diminished, but he’s good-humored and serene.
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Title: Re: Pope Benedict RESIGNING
Post by: grace-land on November 24, 2020, 05:01:08 PM
https://www.vaticannews.va/en/vatican-city/news/2020-11/paolo-gabriele-butler-benedict-xvi-death.html

Pope Benedict XVI's former butler, Paolo Gabriele, dies aged 54
24 November 2020, 15:28

Paolo Gabriele died on Tuesday after a long illness, leaving behind a wife and three children.
By Vatican News

Paolo Gabriele, the former butler of Pope Emeritus Benedict XVI, died on Tuesday after a long illness, aged 54.

After several years of service to the Holy See as part of the Pontifical Family, Mr. Gabriele, in 2012, became the protagonist of the first “Vatileaks”, the theft of confidential documents later published in a book.
 ::snipping3::
https://www.catholicnewsagency.com/news/benedict-xvis-former-butler-paolo-gabriele-dies-at-age-54-92436
Benedict XVI’s former 'Vatileaks' butler Paolo Gabriele dies at age 54


Title: Re: Pope Benedict RESIGNING
Post by: grace-land on November 28, 2020, 04:50:49 PM
https://www.vaticannews.va/en/pope/news/2020-11/pope-emeritus-news-cardinals-visit-consistory.html

The Pope and the new Cardinals visit Benedict XVI
28 November 2020, 19:30

Pope Emeritus, Benedict XVI, greeted and blessed the 13 new Cardinals whom he met in the chapel of the “Mater Ecclesiae” monastery in the Vatican after the consistory.

Following the celebration of Saturday afternoon’s Ordinary Public Consistory, which took place in St. Peter's Basilica, "the Holy Father and the 11 new cardinals present in Rome visited Pope Emeritus, Benedict XVI.”

According to a statement released by the Holy See Press Office, the meeting took place in the chapel of the Mater Ecclesiae monastery inside the Vatican "in an atmosphere of affection”, during which the cardinals were introduced individually to the Pope Emeritus.

The statement also said that Benedict XVI expressed his joy for the visit and, after the recitation of the “Salve Regina” blessed them.
 ::snipping3::
Video at the link below--
https://twitter.com/EWTNVatican
EWTN Vatican@EWTNVatican·5h
📹VIDEO | Pope Francis and new cardinals visited Benedict XVI at the Mater Ecclesiae Monastery in the Vatican today after a cardinal-creating consistory in St Peter’s Basilica. Images: Vatican Media

Video, with English commentary, at the link below--
https://www.vaticannews.va/en/pope/news/2020-11/pope-francis-homily-consistory-new-cardinals.html
Pope urges new cardinals to stay on the Lord’s road
28 November 2020, 16:52

https://www.vaticannews.va/en/vatican-city/news/2020-11/vatican-new-cardinals-biography-consistory.html
The Church’s new cardinals – who’s who?
28 November 2020, 16:50


Title: Re: Pope Benedict RESIGNING
Post by: grace-land on December 06, 2020, 04:39:54 PM
https://www.catholicnewsagency.com/news/archbishop-gnswein-pope-benedict-xvi-has-not-lost-his-voice-64589

Benedict XVI has not lost his voice, says Archbishop Gänswein

Vatican City, Dec 4, 2020 / 07:05 am MT (CNA).- Archbishop Georg Gänswein has denied media reports that Benedict XVI has lost his voice.

The Austrian Catholic news agency Kathpress reported Dec. 4 that Benedict XVI’s personal secretary had confirmed that the 93-year-old pope emeritus was still able to speak clearly.

Reports had circulated in the Italian press and on social media suggesting that the German theologian, who served as pope from 2005 to 2013, was no longer able to speak.

CNA Deutsch, CNA’s German-language news partner, said that Gänswein told Kathpress that Benedict’s voice had, however, become “very weak and thin.”
 ::snipping3::


Title: Re: Pope Benedict RESIGNING
Post by: grace-land on December 31, 2020, 05:41:58 PM
https://www.americamagazine.org/faith/2020/12/31/archbishop-ganswein-pope-francis-reassign-vatican-239630

Archbishop Gänswein says he was “pained” by Francis’ decision to reassign him
December 31, 2020

Munich (KNA) – Archbishop Georg Gänswein, the German private secretary of Pope Emeritus Benedict XVI, has spoken of his shock at having been placed on a leave of absence from his work for Pope Francis.

Gänswein had been Prefect of the Papal Household until Francis unexpectedly told him at the end of January that he should devote all his time and energy to Benedict and that his duties as prefect were being redistributed. The decision had “pained” him, Gänswein told the German magazine Bunte.
 ::snipping3::
He said he had felt well again since December. After his hospital stay, he also had a “clarifying, very strengthening and encouraging meeting with Pope Francis.”

Gänswein said Benedict XVI remained very alert mentally. “Physically, however, he has become quite weak,” he said. “At 93, he is at a blessed age. Despite all their personal differences, he and his successor share a friendly, even cordial togetherness.”


Title: Re: Pope Benedict RESIGNING
Post by: grace-land on January 01, 2021, 04:52:37 PM
https://www.catholicnewsagency.com/news/archbishop-ganswein-pope-benedict-xvis-secretary-reflects-on-awful-2020-with-bunte-magazine-76558

Pope Benedict’s secretary reflects on awful 2020 with German Magazine

CNA Staff, Jan 1, 2021 / 01:29 pm MT (CNA).- Archbishop Georg Gänswein has spoken about life with Pope emeritus Benedict XVI and a personally challenging year. "I'm grateful to God that 2020 is finally over," the 64-year-old told the German tabloid magazine “Bunte”, saying Rome had at times turned “eerily quiet” during the coronavirus pandemic.

Gänswein, who hails from the Black Forest region of Germany, is prefect of the Papal Household, but has been on leave from his duties as prefect since February in order to be able to dedicate his time exclusively to the former pope as Benedict XVI's private secretary.
 ::snipping3::
Gänswein celebrated Christmas and New Year’s with Pope emeritus Benedict in the monastery building Mater Ecclesiae in the Vatican Gardens, where the men and four Italian nuns reside.

"I pray the Liturgy of the Hours daily with Pope emeritus Benedict and also the Rosary. A considerable amount of my time is reserved for prayer. Every priest, every bishop, even the Pope, prays not only for himself but for the people entrusted to them. Also and especially for those who do not want to or cannot pray", Gänswein told the magazine.

He also said Benedict XVI remained very alert mentally. “Physically, however, he has become quite weak,” he said. “At 93, he is at a blessed age.”


Title: Re: Pope Benedict RESIGNING
Post by: grace-land on January 02, 2021, 08:14:41 PM
https://www.ncregister.com/blog/benedict-xvi-warnings

Benedict XVI Warned Us Years Ago of Dangers Ahead

Several times during his pontificate, Pope Benedict XVI sounded the alarm about the direction society was taking, and told us what we must do in response.
Joseph Pronechen  Blogs January 2, 2021

Like the seers and prophets of old, Pope Emeritus Benedict XVI several times warned about the direction society was taking and where it was heading, and what we should do.

“In the Old and New Testaments, the Lord proclaims judgment on the unfaithful vineyard,” Benedict XVI said in his homily to bishops gathered together in October 2005.

“The threat of judgment also concerns us, the Church in Europe, Europe and the West in general. … The Lord is also crying out to our ears… ‘If you do not repent I will come to you and remove your lampstand from its place.’ Light can also be taken away from us and we do well to let this warning ring out with its full seriousness in our hearts, while crying to the Lord: ‘Help us to repent! Give all of us the grace of true renewal! Do not allow your light in our midst to blow out! Strengthen our faith, our hope and our love, so that we can bear good fruit!’”

Benedict’s reference to Revelation 2:5, where Jesus is speaking to the church in Ephesus, serves an even more stark reminder today. It wasn’t the only time Benedict turned to the Book of Revelation.

During his 2010 Christmas greetings he warned, “The Book of Revelation (18:13) includes among the great sins of Babylon — the symbol of the world’s great irreligious cities — the fact that it trades with bodies and souls and treats them as commodities. In this context, the problem of drugs also rears its head, and with increasing force extends its octopus tentacles around the entire world — an eloquent expression of the tyranny of mammon which perverts mankind. No pleasure is ever enough…”

Benedict warned that this “fatal misunderstanding of freedom… actually undermines man’s freedom and ultimately destroys it.”

Two years later, speaking to the United States bishops on their ad limina visit, he again cautioned about what he saw happening. He told them, “It is imperative that the entire Catholic community in the United States come to realize the grave threats to the Church’s public moral witness presented by a radical secularism which finds increasing expression in the political and cultural spheres. The seriousness of these threats needs to be clearly appreciated at every level of ecclesial life. Of particular concern are certain attempts being made to limit that most cherished of American freedoms, the freedom of religion.”
 ::snipping3::
And in the 2010 speech he directed us to hope and to a solution as he quoted Psalm 82:8: “Rise up, O God, judge the earth; for all the nations belong to you!”

Then he ended with this plea: “Thus we say to the Lord: ‘Arise at this moment, take the world in your hands, protect your Church, protect humanity, protect the earth.’ And we once again entrust ourselves to the Mother of God, Mary, and pray: ‘You, the great believer, you who have opened the earth to the heavens, help us, open the doors today as well, that truth may win, the will of God, which is the true good, the true salvation of the world.’ Amen.”


Title: Re: Pope Benedict RESIGNING
Post by: grace-land on January 12, 2021, 04:47:52 PM
https://www.catholicnewsagency.com/news/pope-emeritus-benedict-xvi-to-receive-coronavirus-vaccine-10328

Benedict XVI to receive coronavirus vaccine

Vatican City, Jan 12, 2021 / 03:30 am MT (CNA).- Pope emeritus Benedict XVI will receive the coronavirus vaccine as soon as it is available, his personal secretary said Tuesday.

Archbishop Georg Gänswein told CNA Deutsch, CNA’s German-language news partner, Jan. 12 that the 93-year-old former pope would be vaccinated “as soon as the vaccine is available.”

“I will also be vaccinated along with the whole household of the Mater Ecclesiae Monastery,” said Gänswein, referring to the Vatican monastery where Benedict XVI has lived since resigning as pope in 2013.
 ::snipping3::


Title: Re: Pope Benedict RESIGNING
Post by: grace-land on January 14, 2021, 09:55:25 AM
https://www.vaticannews.va/en/pope/news/2021-01/pope-francis-benedict-xvi-covid-19-vaccine.html

Pope Francis and the Pope emeritus receive Covid-19 vaccine
14 January 2021, 12:08

Pope Francis and Pope Emeritus Benedict XVI receive their first doses of the Covid-19 vaccine in the Vatican.
By Vatican News

The vaccination campaign against Covid-19 in the Vatican which began on Wednesday continues with both Pope Francis and Pope Emeritus Benedict XVI receiving their first doses of the vaccine.

“I can confirm that as part of the vaccination program of the Vatican City State, as of today, the first dose of the Covid-19 vaccine has been administered to Pope Francis and to the Pope Emeritus,” said Matteo Bruni, director of the Holy See Press Office in response to journalists’ questions.
 ::snipping3::


Title: Re: Pope Benedict RESIGNING
Post by: grace-land on January 14, 2021, 10:00:44 AM
https://www.vaticannews.va/en/pope/news/2021-01/benedict-xvi-the-pandemic-first-christmas-without-his-brother.html

Benedict XVI, the pandemic, first Christmas without his brother

Archbishop Georg Gänswein shares how the Pope emeritus, who was vaccinated on Thursday morning, is living through these difficult times.
By Vatican News

This was Benedict XVI's first Christmas without his brother Georg, although his presence was somehow felt, says Archbishop Georg Gänswein, the personal secretary of the Pope emeritus. The Archbishop, who also serves as Prefect of the Papal Household, spoke with Vatican News on the day Joseph Ratzinger was vaccinated at the Mater Ecclesiae Monastery in the Vatican.

“Benedict XVI’s brother, during these Christmas holidays — the first after his death — has made himself felt in some way: we have, in fact, listened several times to CDs, not only to Bach's Christmas Oratorio, but also to concerts with Christmas carols, performed by the Regensburger Domspatzen, the choir that Georg Ratzinger directed.” Archbishop Gänswein added: “For Benedict, this absence is a wound that has caused him pain during these holidays, but he also told me that he felt the Lord's consolation, in the certainty that his brother now lives in His embrace.”

The Pope emeritus’ personal secretary also spoke of how this time of pandemic is being lived inside the Mater Ecclesiae monastery. “The daily organisation has not changed much. The rhythm of the days has remained the same, even if the number of visits has been greatly reduced. Benedict follows the news that reaches us on television and shares our concern about the pandemic, about what is happening in the world, about the many people who are losing their lives to the virus. There have been people he knows who have died from Covid-19.”
 ::snipping3::


Title: Re: Pope Benedict RESIGNING
Post by: grace-land on January 17, 2021, 10:53:09 AM
Photos at the link

https://www.catholicnewsagency.com/news/archbishop-gnswein-holy-face-of-manoppello-conveys-incomparable-news-of-christs-resurrection-76530
Archbishop Gänswein: Holy Face of Manoppello conveys ‘incomparable news’ of the resurrection

CNA Staff, Jan 17, 2021 / 09:00 am MT (CNA).- Archbishop Georg Gänswein said on Sunday that the image known as the Holy Face of Manoppello conveys the “incomparable news” of Christ’s resurrection.

The Prefect of the Papal Household made the comment on Jan. 17 as he preached at Mass at the Shrine of the Holy Face in Manoppello, a village in the Abruzzo region of southern Italy.

Gänswein recalled that in 2006 Benedict XVI became the first pope in more than 400 years to venerate the image, located in a church that is part of a Capuchin monastery.

“Pope Benedict had not come barefoot like Pope Innocent, but by helicopter from Castel Gandolfo to Manoppello at the invitation of Archbishop Bruno Forte [of Chieti-Vasto],” said Gänswein, Benedict’s personal secretary.

“And I still remember very vividly every moment of that meeting, as well as May 15, 2009, when Benedict XVI visited the Holy Sepulchre in Jerusalem, from which the veil of the Holy Face -- as well as the Shroud of Turin -- originates as incomparable news of the resurrection of Christ from the dead.”

Some devotees of the Holy Face of Manoppello believe it is the “veil of Veronica” used to dry Christ’s face as he carried the cross to his crucifixion. Others say it is the “resurrection cloth,” a “sudarium” that covered Christ’s face in the tomb. Others still consider it inauthentic.
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Title: Re: Pope Benedict RESIGNING
Post by: grace-land on February 05, 2021, 04:45:54 PM
https://www.catholicnewsagency.com/news/pope-francis-and-benedict-xvi-receive-second-dose-of-covid-19-vaccine-20561

Pope Francis and Benedict XVI receive second dose of COVID-19 vaccine
By Hannah Brockhaus

Vatican City, Feb 5, 2021 / 06:00 am MT (CNA).- Pope Francis and Pope emeritus Benedict XVI have both received their second and final dose of the COVID-19 vaccine, a Vatican source confirmed to CNA.

Pope Francis and Benedict had received the first dose of the vaccine last month, as confirmed by Matteo Bruni, director of the Holy See Press Office, on Jan. 14.
 ::snipping3::


Title: Re: Pope Benedict RESIGNING
Post by: grace-land on March 01, 2021, 05:47:59 PM
https://www.vaticannews.va/en/pope/news/2021-03/pope-emeritus-benedict-xvi-renunciation.html

Pope Emeritus Benedict XVI: “There are not two Popes”
01 March 2021, 10:12

In an interview with the Italian newspaper Corriere della Sera, Pope Emeritus Benedict XVI recalls that his renunciation of the papacy was a “difficult choice” but made “in full conscience,” believing that he did well.
By Vatican News

Pope Emeritus Benedict XVI’s resignation from the papacy, which became effective eight years ago, [28 February 2013] was a “difficult choice,” but made “in full conscience” – one which he has not regretted at all.
 ::snipping3::
https://www.catholicnewsagency.com/news/pope-emeritus-benedict-xvi-addresses-resignation-conspiracy-theories-iraq-and-biden-in-new-interview-50478
Benedict XVI addresses resignation conspiracy theories, Iraq, and Biden in new interview

The interview in Italian--
https://www.corriere.it/cronache/21_marzo_01/intervista-ratzinger-non-ci-sono-due-papi-rinuncia-8-anni-fa-credo-aver-fatto-bene-07a0ce58-7a01-11eb-b9cd-5eae78a2031e.shtml
Intervista a Ratzinger: «Non ci sono due Papi. La rinuncia di 8 anni fa? Credo di aver fatto bene»

https://www.ncregister.com/news/pope-benedict-s-conscience-is-clear-regarding-his-2013-resignation
Pope Benedict’s ‘Conscience Is Clear’ Regarding His 2013 Resignation
Edward Pentin  Vatican  March 1, 2021


Title: Re: Pope Benedict RESIGNING
Post by: grace-land on March 01, 2021, 06:01:04 PM
https://cruxnow.com/vatican/2021/03/benedict-discuses-resignation-iraq-and-biden-in-new-interview/

Benedict discuses resignation, Iraq and Biden in new interview
Inés San Martín  Mar 1, 2021

ROME – Eight years to the date since he officially left the See of Peter vacant, Pope emeritus Benedict XVI still has to repeat that “there is only one pope,” that his decision to resign was made with full freedom, and it wasn’t due to a gay lobby in the Vatican.

In an interview released Monday, he also refers to Pope Francis’s upcoming trip to Iraq and to U.S. President Joe Biden.
 ::snipping3::
According to Corriere, Benedict’s voice is “thin as a breath,” and during some sections of the conversation, almost soundless. His personal secretary, Archbishop Georg Gaenswein was also present at the interview, and in some rare passages repeats and “translates” while Benedict nods in approval.

“The mind remains clear, quick as the eyes, alert and lively,” writes the journalist who met with the pope emeritus. “The white hair is slightly long, under the papal skullcap as white as his robe. Two very thin wrists emerge from his sleeves, highlighting an image of great physical fragility. Ratzinger wears a watch on his left wrist and on his right a strange contraption that looks like another watch but is actually an alarm ready to go off if something happens to him.”
 ::snipping3::


Title: Re: Pope Benedict RESIGNING
Post by: grace-land on March 10, 2021, 05:46:12 PM
English translation of the interview at the link

https://www.ncregister.com/interview/cardinal-sarah-the-only-thing-that-counts-is-to-seek-god-ever-more-deeply

Cardinal Sarah: ‘The Only Thing That Counts Is to Seek God Ever More Deeply’
Edward Pentin  Vatican  March 10, 2021

In his first interview since Pope Francis accepted his resignation as prefect of the Congregation for Divine Worship and Discipline of the Sacraments last month, Cardinal Robert Sarah has revealed how ideological struggles over worship were a source of “great suffering” for him.

In comments to Matteo Matzuzzi of the Italian daily Il Foglio published on Wednesday (see below for an English translation provided exclusively to the Register), Cardinal Sarah says that in the Church today “too often we act as if everything is a question of politics, power, influence and the unjustified imposition of a hermeneutic of Vatican II that totally breaks and is irreversibly at odds with Tradition.”

The solution, he argues, is for the Church to return to placing God at the center of the liturgy, beginning by celebrating Mass ad orientem. “If God is not at the center of the Church’s life, then she is in danger of death,” he says, suggesting that the Church is “currently experiencing a Good Friday,” but adding that “Christ's victory always comes through the Cross.”

Cardinal Sarah stresses that it’s unsound to view such matters as being ideological issues. “I don’t believe that the struggle between progressives and conservatives has any meaning in the Church,” he said, adding, “These categories are political and ideological. The Church is not a field of political struggle.”

He also discusses his positive relationships with Pope Francis and Pope Emeritus Benedict XVI, his time as prefect, his plans for the future, and how he sees the Church in the coming years.
 ::snipping3::


Title: Re: Pope Benedict RESIGNING
Post by: grace-land on March 31, 2021, 07:46:57 PM
https://www.catholicnewsagency.com/news/benedict-xvi-delighted-that-pope-francis-has-declared-year-of-st-joseph

Benedict XVI ‘delighted’ by Year of St. Joseph proclaimed by Pope Francis

CNA Staff, Mar 31, 2021 / 06:00 am MT (CNA).- Pope emeritus Benedict XVI has paid tribute to the Year of St. Joseph declared by Pope Francis and urged Catholics to read Francis’ apostolic letter Patris corde, describing it as a simple text “coming from the heart and going to the heart, yet containing such profound depth.

In an interview with the German Catholic weekly newspaper Die Tagespost, the 93-year-old, whose baptismal patron saint is Joseph, also talked about family memories, and impressions from his pilgrimages to the Holy Land.

“I am of course particularly delighted that Pope Francis has drawn the attention of the faithful to St. Joseph,” Benedict XVI said in the interview which will be published in full April 1.

“I have therefore read with particular gratitude and heartfelt approval the apostolic letter Patris corde, which the Holy Father issued on the occasion of the elevation of St. Joseph to patron saint of the entire Church 150 years ago.”

“I think that this text should be read and considered again and again by the faithful and thus contribute to a purification and deepening of our veneration of the saints in general and of St. Joseph in particular.”
 ::snipping3::


Title: Re: Pope Benedict RESIGNING
Post by: grace-land on April 09, 2021, 05:56:21 PM
https://www.catholicnewsagency.com/news/247231/documentary-says-benedict-xvis-secretary-tried-to-convince-him-not-to-resign

Documentary says Benedict XVI’s secretary tried to convince him not to resign
By Diego Lopez Marina

Vatican City, Apr 9, 2021 / 15:29 pm

A documentary being released on Benedict XVI’s 94th birthday state that his personal secretary, Archbishop Georg Gänswein, tried to dissuade him from abdicating the papacy.

“Benedict XVI, the Pope Emeritus”, directed by Andrés Garrigó, will be released April 16 by Goya Productions.

The film will focus on Benedict’s papacy, and his time as prefect of Congregation for the Doctrine of the Faith.

“At that time he had to deal with such crises as Liberation Theology in its Marxist version with its affinity to guerrilla warfare, and the cases of pedophilia that were beginning to surface then. Elected in 2005, Benedict is faced with two immense tasks:  defending Catholic doctrine from the 'dictatorship of relativism' on the outside and reforming the Church from within, starting with the confusing structure of Vatican finances,” the filmmaker stated.
 ::snipping3::


Title: Re: Pope Benedict RESIGNING
Post by: grace-land on April 11, 2021, 03:52:42 PM
https://cruxnow.com/vatican/2021/04/benedict-xvis-private-secretary-says-its-inappropriate-to-rank-popes/

Benedict XVI’s private secretary says it’s ‘inappropriate’ to rank popes
Inés San Martín  Apr 11, 2021

ROME – According to German Archbishop Georg Gänswein, the personal secretary of Pope emeritus Benedict XVI, it’s not appropriate to make a “papal ranking,” and acknowledged that the former pope has been misinterpreted not only by foes, but also by friends.

“Everyone knows that the figure and work of Benedict XVI have encountered resistance, opposition and rejection in certain environments,” Gänswein said. “And not so much because of the way he communicates, but rather because of the specific contents of his teaching.”

“This is an unpleasant experience for all those who follow a clear and unclouded line in proclaiming and defending the Catholic faith,” he continued, differentiating these critics from those who bought the “stereotypes and clichés” about the former pope, who served as prefect of the Congregation for the Doctrine of the Faith (CDF) during most of St. John Paul II pontificate.
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Title: Re: Pope Benedict RESIGNING
Post by: grace-land on April 16, 2021, 06:09:53 PM
Happy 94th birthday!   :smt113

https://www.catholicnewsagency.com/news/247303/benedict-xvi-turns-94-years-old

Benedict XVI turns 94 years old
By Hannah Brockhaus

Vatican City, Apr 16, 2021 / 10:13 am America/Denver (CNA).

Pope Emeritus Benedict XVI was born 94 years ago today in the town of Marktl, Bavaria. More than eight years after he announced his retirement from the papacy in 2013, Benedict continues to live a retired life in the Mater Ecclesiae monastery on Vatican grounds.

Despite growing feebleness, the retired pope is in good health, and has marked his April 16 birthday each year, sometimes in the presence of family and friends.

This is Benedict’s first birthday since the death of his older brother Georg Ratzinger on July 1, 2020 in Bavaria.
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https://www.ncregister.com/commentaries/pope-benedict-xvi-the-anchor-that-kept-germany-rooted-in-christ
Pope Benedict XVI, the Anchor That Kept Germany Rooted in Christ

COMMENTARY: In the late evening of his life, Ratzinger/Benedict can be understood as the Catholic Church’s singular, multi-generational response to the reforming agenda of German theology.
Father Raymond J. de Souza  Commentaries April 15, 2021

Did the Church place too many of her theological eggs in one Bavarian Easter basket?

The question occurs as Pope Emeritus Benedict XVI — born on Holy Saturday and baptized the same day in the newly-blessed Easter water — celebrates his 94th birthday tomorrow, April 16.

With the death of Father Hans Küng, 93, during the Easter Octave, the generation to which Joseph Ratzinger belongs is passing away. Ratzinger, the Bavarian, and the Swiss Küng were 30-something theological wunderkinds, both part of what Ratzinger called the “Rhine alliance” of northern European theologians who would definitively shape the work of the Second Vatican Council.

The Rhine Flows Into the Tiber was the title of one of the more famous books on Vatican II, and Cardinal Ratzinger flowed farther than anyone, becoming, as it were, the Tiber itself upon his election as supreme pontiff in 2005.

The current theological chaos in Germany, where the “binding synodal path” raises the possibility of schism, invites renewed attention to German theology, one of the most influential forces in ecclesial life in the past century. For 60 years, from his ordination in 1951 to his abdication in 2013, Joseph Ratzinger was at the center of it. Indeed, he became something of an anchor in stormy seas. After his abdication, the boat began to drift.

In the late evening of his life, Ratzinger/Benedict can be understood as the Church’s singular, multi-generational response to the reforming agenda of German theology. Would that reform be Catholic, returning to the great and wide tradition, or Protestant, diverging from it?
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Title: Re: Pope Benedict RESIGNING
Post by: grace-land on April 19, 2021, 08:03:14 PM
https://cruxnow.com/vatican/2021/04/benedict-xvis-personal-secretary-defends-the-former-pontiffs-inner-circle/

Benedict XVI’s personal secretary defends the former pontiff’s inner circle
Inés San Martín  Apr 19, 2021

ROME— Archbishop Georg Gänswein, the personal secretary of the Pope Emeritus Benedict XVI, has denied that the communications that come from the former pontiff’s household are somehow damaging to the Church.

“To judge the communications or interventions coming from the Mater Ecclesiae monastery as ‘inappropriate’ seems a generic and superficial criticism, fruit of a superficial reading or, even, myopic and deceitful,” he said in his latest interview.

The archbishop was answering a question posed to him that used the word “inappropriate” to refer to some communications and interventions coming from the monastery within Vatican grounds where the pope emeritus has lived since his resignation in 2013.

He’s recently given several written interviews to a handful of Spanish-speaking outlets to promote the Spanish edition of his book How the Catholic Church Can Restore Our Culture, published in 2020.
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Title: Re: Pope Benedict RESIGNING
Post by: grace-land on May 20, 2021, 04:48:05 PM
https://www.catholicnewsagency.com/news/247725/benedict-xvi-to-minor-seminary-what-has-withered-in-germany-still-blossoms-in-poland

Benedict XVI to minor seminary: What has withered in Germany still blossoms in Poland
CNA Staff, May 20, 2021 / 13:00 pm America/Denver (CNA).

Pope emeritus Benedict XVI has written to a minor seminary in Poland, saying that he is delighted to see “how in Poland still blossoms what in Germany has withered.”

The retired German pope sent the letter, dated May 7, to the Minor Seminary of the Archdiocese of Częstochowa, located in the southern Polish city that is home to the venerated icon of the Black Madonna.

The 94-year-old pope emeritus wrote: “The letter from your seminary, signed by the two prefects and the dean, brought great joy to my house. It is wonderful to see how in Poland still blossoms what in Germany has withered.”

He continued: “I particularly liked the illustration which shows my brother and me talking about the seminary and the invitation to me to visit the Minor Seminary of the Archdiocese of Częstochowa.”

“Even if, given my age and state of health, it is no longer possible for me to visit you in person, I am your guest with my heart.”

The illustration, shown on the minor seminary’s website, features a photograph of Benedict XVI as pope, walking beside his late older brother, Msgr. Georg Ratzinger.

In a speech balloon, Benedict reminisces about the brothers’ time at a minor seminary in Bavaria, southern Germany. Msgr. Ratzinger, in reply, wonders if there are any such places these days.

At the foot of the illustration, it says: “In fact, there are! Come and see. The Minor Seminary of the Archdiocese of Częstochowa invites you.”

The minor seminary, for high school-age students, dates back to 1951.
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Title: Re: Pope Benedict RESIGNING
Post by: grace-land on June 15, 2021, 05:28:01 PM
https://www.catholicnewsagency.com/news/248001/burkina-faso-names-street-in-honor-of-pope-emeritus-benedict-xvi

Burkina Faso names street in honor of Pope emeritus Benedict XVI
By CNA Staff
Ouagadougou, Burkina Faso, Jun 15, 2021 / 08:00 am

A cardinal in Burkina Faso said Sunday that the naming of a street after Pope emeritus Benedict XVI “brings hope” to the country, Africa, and the world.

Cardinal Philippe Ouédraogo was speaking at a June 13 ceremony unveiling the newly named Rue Pape Benoît XVI (Pope Benedict XVI Street) in the capital, Ouagadougou.

The thoroughfare was previously called street 54.160, reported ACI Africa, CNA’s African news partner. It is the location of the country’s apostolic nunciature.

Ouédraogo described Benedict XVI, who served as pope from 2005 until his retirement in 2013, as a great pastor whose name “brings hope to Burkina Faso, to Africa, and to the world and promotes the spirit of dialogue, reconciliation, justice and peace in the hearts of all people.”

“Let us make this street a place where peace awakens faith,” the archbishop of Ouagadougou added.
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Title: Re: Pope Benedict RESIGNING
Post by: grace-land on June 28, 2021, 01:07:21 PM
https://cruxnow.com/vatican/2021/06/benedict-xvi-to-mark-70-years-as-priest-with-brothers-choir/

Benedict XVI to mark 70 years as priest with brother’s choir
Elise Ann Allen  Jun 28, 2021

ROME – This week marks the 70th anniversary of retired Pope Benedict XVI’s ordination as a priest – an anniversary his personal secretary says will be celebrated with things of personal significance: The liturgy, and former members of his late brother’s choir.

Speaking to Rome Reports, German Archbishop Georg Gänswein, head of the Prefecture for the Papal Household and Benedict XVI’s personal secretary, said the choir was a surprise for Benedict.

For Benedict XVI, “surprises are always related to the liturgy,” Gänswein said, noting that for the June 29 anniversary, “We’ve invited a group of former members of the choir from Regensburg who learned to sing alongside his brother.”
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According to Gänswein, Benedict XVI is physically weak and is unable to stand for the half-hour Mass that will be celebrated in honor of his priestly ordination, “so he concelebrates Mass.”

“He sits in a wheelchair next to the altar while I act as the main celebrant,” Gänswein said, adding, “We do this every day. There hasn’t been a day since his ordination that he hasn’t celebrated or concelebrated Mass.”

Benedict, he said, “remembers that the ceremony that day was long. He also recalls the dignified manner of the prestigious and older Cardinal (Michael von) Faulhaber, who ordained him.”

“The cardinal made a lasting impression on him. His life as a priest was marked by that day in 1951,” Gänswein said.

Speaking of Benedict’s physical condition, Gänswein described him as “very fragile” physically, and is unable to speak much because his voice is also weak, but “thank God, his mind continues to work very well.”

Overall, Benedict “is in good spirits and says, ‘Every day I begin with the Lord and end with the Lord. We’ll see how long it lasts,’” he said.
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Title: Re: Pope Benedict RESIGNING
Post by: grace-land on June 29, 2021, 12:36:21 PM
https://www.vaticannews.va/en/pope/news/2021-06/pope-angelus-peter-and-paul-benedict-xvi-lebanon-osservatore.html

Pope thanks Benedict XVI for his continuing service
29 June 2021, 16:29

Marking the 70th anniversary from the ordination of the Pope Emeritus, Pope Francis upholds his continuing service and describes him as “the contemplative of the Vatican” who prays for the Church and the diocese of Rome.
By Linda Bordoni

Pope Francis on Tuesday said he is marking an anniversary “hat touches the hearts of us all: 70 years ago, Pope Benedict was ordained a priest!”

Addressing the pilgrims gathered in St. Peter’s Square for the Angelus prayer on the Solemnity of Saints Peter and Paul, the patron saints of the city of Rome, the Pope said: that “To you, Benedict, dear father and brother, goes our affection, our gratitude and our closeness. “

He told those present that the Pope Emeritus lives in a monastery, “a place intended to house the contemplative communities here in the Vatican, so that they could pray for the Church.”

He is now the contemplative of the Vatican, the Pope continued, who spends his life praying for the Church and for the diocese of Rome, of which he is bishop emeritu: “Thank you, Benedict, dear father and brother. Thank you for your credible witness. Thank you for your gaze, constantly directed towards the horizon of God: thank you!"
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https://www.catholicnewsagency.com/news/248181/pope-francis-thanks-benedict-xvi-on-his-70th-ordination-anniversary
Pope Francis thanks Benedict XVI on his 70th ordination anniversary
By Courtney Mares
Vatican City, Jun 29, 2021 / 12:00 pm


Title: Re: Pope Benedict RESIGNING
Post by: grace-land on July 26, 2021, 07:43:27 PM
https://www.catholicnewsagency.com/news/248494/benedict-xvi-laments-lack-of-faith-within-church-institutions-in-germany#.YP7OA3DJyac.twitter

Benedict XVI laments lack of faith within Church institutions in Germany
By CNA Staff
Freiburg, Jul 26, 2021 / 06:30 am

Pope emeritus Benedict XVI has expressed concern about the lack of faith within Church institutions in Germany.

The retired pope made the comments in a written conversation in the August issue of the German magazine Herder Korrespondenz, marking the 70th anniversary of his ordination to the priesthood, reported CNA Deutsch, CNA’s German-language news partner.

“In Church institutions -- hospitals, schools, Caritas -- many people participate in decisive positions who do not share the inner mission of the Church and thus in many cases obscure the witness of this institution,” he said.

In an exchange with Tobias Winstel, the 94-year-old reflected on the concept of the “Amtskirche,” a German term that can be translated as “institutional Church” and is used to refer to the large number of Church-tax funded structures and institutions in Germany.
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Title: Re: Pope Benedict RESIGNING
Post by: grace-land on August 05, 2021, 08:43:41 PM
https://www.catholicsun.org/2021/08/03/as-he-turns-65-archbishop-ganswein-not-dwelling-on-his-situation/

As he turns 65, Archbishop Gänswein not dwelling on his situation
BY CATHOLIC NEWS SERVICE
AUG 3, 2021

VATICAN CITY (CNS) — On July 30, Archbishop Georg Gänswein celebrates his 65th birthday. For most bishops, this is not a particularly special day, since normally they only must submit their retirement at 75.

All the same, Archbishop Gänswein has a feeling similar to what many retirees feel: of falling into a kind of a hole when turning 65. In an interview with Germany’s Catholic news agency, KNA, he said he is still interested in taking on fresh tasks.


“Holy Father, give me counsel: What should I do?” was the German archbishop’s appeal in mid-January 2020 to Pope Francis. At the time, there was a worldwide uproar about a book by Cardinal Robert Sarah about the priesthood, which included a contribution from retired Pope Benedict XVI. Many observers saw it as a rejection of Pope Francis’ reform ideas. Some of this interpretation is attributed to how the French publisher presented the book, but Archbishop Gänswein’s role also was discussed.

Pope Francis’ response struck the archbishop like a thunderbolt, KNA reported. Archbishop Gänswein was to remain at home and was told that he no longer needed to come to the prefecture.

“I want you to have more time for Benedict,” Pope Francis was said to have told him. Since then, Archbishop Gänswein formally remains prefect of the papal household, but is tasked with tending exclusively to the retired pope.
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Title: Re: Pope Benedict RESIGNING
Post by: grace-land on September 16, 2021, 07:14:02 PM
https://www.catholicnewsagency.com/news/249006/benedict-xvi-legalization-of-same-sex-marriage-is-a-distortion-of-conscience

Benedict XVI: Legalization of same-sex marriage is ‘a distortion of conscience’
By Hannah Brockhaus
Vatican City, Sep 16, 2021 / 09:15 am

Pope emeritus Benedict XVI has said that the legalization of same-sex marriage in many countries is “a distortion of conscience” which has also entered some Catholic circles.

In an introduction to a new anthology of his writings on Europe, Benedict XVI said that “with the legalization of ‘same-sex marriage’ in 16 European countries, the issue of marriage and family has taken on a new dimension that cannot be ignored.”


“We are witnessing a distortion of conscience which has evidently penetrated deeply into sectors of the Catholic people,” the pope emeritus wrote. “This cannot be answered with some small moralism or even with some exegetical reference. The problem goes deeper and therefore must be addressed in fundamental terms.”

The introduction, published in the Italian newspaper Il Foglio on Sept. 16, was written for the Italian book “The Real Europe: Identity and Mission.”

Pope Francis wrote the preface to the book, which compiles texts from Benedict XVI written both before and during his pontificate, which lasted from 2005 to 2013
.

Pope Francis wrote the preface to the book, which compiles texts from Benedict XVI written both before and during his pontificate, which lasted from 2005 to 2013.

In the preface, Francis wrote that “beyond so many words and high-sounding proclamations, today in Europe the very idea of respect for every human life is increasingly lost, starting with the loss of awareness of its sacredness, that is, precisely starting from the obfuscation of the consciousness that we are creatures of God.”

“Benedict XVI is not afraid to denounce, over the years, with great courage and foresight the many manifestations of this dramatic renunciation of the idea of creation, up to the current, final consequences, described in an absolutely clear and convincing way in the introductory text,” Pope Francis said.

In his introduction, Benedict XVI said it was important to observe that the concept of “same-sex marriage” is “in contradiction with all the cultures of humanity that have followed one another up to now, and thus signifies a cultural revolution that is opposed to the whole tradition of humanity until today.”
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Title: Re: Pope Benedict RESIGNING
Post by: grace-land on October 01, 2021, 12:27:33 PM
https://www.catholicnewsagency.com/news/249152/old-testament-expert-and-philosopher-from-germany-win-2021-ratzinger-prize

Old Testament expert and philosopher from Germany win 2021 Ratzinger Prize
By Hannah Brockhaus
Vatican City, Oct 1, 2021 / 08:00 am

A philosopher and an Old Testament theologian from Germany have been named the winners of the 2021 edition of the Ratzinger Prize.

The Joseph Ratzinger-Benedict XVI Foundation announced Friday that the annual award will go to Hanna-Barbara Gerl-Falkovitz and Ludger Schwienhorst-Schönberger.

Pope Francis will present the award to the two recipients in a ceremony at the Vatican on Nov. 13.

The Ratzinger Prize was launched in 2011 to recognize scholars whose work demonstrates a meaningful contribution to theology in the spirit of Cardinal Joseph Ratzinger, the Bavarian theologian who became Benedict XVI.
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Title: Re: Pope Benedict RESIGNING
Post by: grace-land on October 19, 2021, 04:12:55 PM
 :sad:

http://www.catholicnewsagency.com/news/249327/i-hope-that-i-can-join-them-soon-benedict-xvi-sends-condolence-message-after-friend-s-death

‘I hope that I can join them soon’: Benedict XVI sends condolence message after friend’s death
By CNA Staff
Wilhering, Austria, Oct 19, 2021 / 09:00 am

Pope emeritus Benedict XVI has said that he looks forward to joining his friends in heaven in a condolence message following the death of a Cistercian priest.

In a letter dated Oct. 2 and released by Wilhering Abbey in Austria, the 94-year-old retired pope said that the death of Fr. Gerhard Winkler touched him profoundly, reported CNA Deutsch, CNA’s German-language news partner.

“The news of the passing of Prof. Dr. Gerhard Winkler O. Cist., which you have conveyed to me, has affected me deeply,” wrote Benedict XVI, who was pope from 2005 to 2013.

“Among all colleagues and friends, he was the closest to me. His cheerfulness and deep faith always attracted me.”

“Now he has arrived in the next world, where I am sure many friends are already waiting for him. I hope that I can join them soon.”
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Title: Re: Pope Benedict RESIGNING
Post by: grace-land on October 21, 2021, 07:20:55 PM
 :D

https://www.catholicnewsagency.com/news/249351/archbishop-ganswein-benedict-xvi-is-full-of-zest-for-life
Benedict XVI is ‘full of zest for life,’ says Archbishop Gänswein
By CNA Staff
Vatican City, Oct 21, 2021 / 04:40 am

Archbishop Georg Gänswein has said that Benedict XVI is “full of zest for life” after the pope emeritus expressed the hope that he would join his friends in heaven in a condolence message.

Gänswein, Benedict XVI’s private secretary, spoke to Germany’s Bild newspaper on Oct. 20 after media reports suggested that the 94-year-old retired pope had a “longing for death,” said CNA Deutsch, CNA’s German-language news partner.

“The art of dying well, that is, ars moriendi, is part of the Christian life. Pope Benedict has been doing that for many years,” Gänswein said.

“Yet he is absolutely full of zest for life. He is stable in his physical weakness, crystal clear in his head, and blessed with his typical Bavarian humor.”
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Title: Re: Pope Benedict RESIGNING
Post by: grace-land on November 08, 2021, 03:36:31 PM
https://www.catholicnewsagency.com/news/249523/pope-emeritus-benedict-xvi-marks-10th-anniversary-of-orthodox-leader-s-death

Benedict XVI marks 10th anniversary of Orthodox leader’s death
By CNA Staff
Fribourg, Switzerland, Nov 8, 2021 / 05:00 am

Pope emeritus Benedict XVI has paid tribute to an Orthodox leader on the 10th anniversary of his death.

In a letter dated Oct. 11, the retired German pope said it seemed “inconceivable” that a decade had passed since the death of Metropolitan Damaskinos Papandreou, the first Greek Orthodox metropolitan of Switzerland, in 2011.

CNA Deutsch, CNA’s German-language news partner, reported that Benedict XVI made the comment in a message to a conference held in the metropolitan’s honor on Nov. 5 at the University of Fribourg, Switzerland.

Metropolitan Damaskinos, a bishop of the Ecumenical Patriarchate of Constantinople, was born in Thermo, Greece, on Feb. 23, 1936. He was elected as the first metropolitan of Switzerland in 1982.

The author of numerous works on ecumenism, he served as the metropolitan bishop of Adrianople from 2003 until his death on Nov. 5, 2011, at the age of 75.

“That 10 years have already passed since the death of Metropolitan Damaskinos Papandreou of Switzerland is quite inconceivable to me,” the pope emeritus wrote in his message, addressed to Metropolitan Maximos of Switzerland and Professor Stefanos Athanasiou.

The letter was read out in a video message to the conference by Cardinal Kurt Koch, the Swiss president of the Pontifical Council for Promoting Christian Unity.
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Title: Re: Pope Benedict RESIGNING
Post by: grace-land on November 08, 2021, 03:46:25 PM
Hmmm....

https://www.catholicnewsagency.com/news/249526/vatican-liturgy-chief-traditional-latin-mass-was-abrogated-by-pope-st-paul-vi
Vatican liturgy chief: Traditional Latin Mass ‘abrogated by Pope St. Paul VI’
By CNA Staff
Vatican City, Nov 8, 2021 / 09:00 am

The Vatican’s liturgy chief has said that the Traditional Latin Mass was “abrogated by Pope Saint Paul VI.”

Archbishop Arthur Roche made the comment in a letter dated Aug. 4 to the English Cardinal Vincent Nichols.

The prefect of the Congregation for Divine Worship and the Discipline of the Sacraments was replying to a letter from the cardinal dated July 28, regarding the application of Pope Francis’ motu proprio Traditionis custodes in England and Wales.

A spokesman for Cardinal Nichols confirmed in a email to CNA on Nov. 8 that the correspondence, published on Nov. 5 by the website Gloria.tv, was genuine.
 ::snipping3::
In a letter to the world’s bishops accompanying Summorum Pontificum, Benedict XVI wrote that the pre-conciliar liturgy was “never juridically abrogated.”

“As for the use of the 1962 Missal as a Forma extraordinaria [extraordinary form] of the liturgy of the Mass, I would like to draw attention to the fact that this Missal was never juridically abrogated and, consequently, in principle, was always permitted,” he said in the letter dated July 7, 2007.
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Title: Re: Pope Benedict RESIGNING
Post by: grace-land on November 13, 2021, 05:40:01 PM
https://www.vaticannews.va/en/pope/news/2021-11/pope-francis-discourse-ratzinger-prize-winner.html

Pope: Ratzinger Prize enriches human and spiritual heritage
13 November 2021, 12:20

Pope Francis addresses past and current winners of the prestigious Ratzinger Prize, recalling that the award, given in Pope Emeritus Benedict XVI's name, enriches an immense human and spiritual heritage to be shared.
By Francesca Merlo

Speaking on Saturday on the occasion of the presentation of the annual Ratzinger Prize, Pope Francis greeted all those present, and in particular the prize winners, offering them a warm welcome.

The Ratzinger Prize

The prestigious Ratzinger Prize is given to two scholars each year who stand out for their scientific research in the field of theology, regardless of their religious faith. Due to the pandemic, last year's winners, Professors Jean-Luc Marion and Tracey Rowland were unable to celebrate, and so are celebrating along with this year's winners, Professors Hanna-Barbara Gerl-Falkovitz and Ludger Schwienhorst-Schönberger.
 ::snipping3::
Joseph Ratzinger

The Pope then went on to speak of Joseph Ratzinger, whom he described as one of the many teachers who "educate us to think in order to live our relationship with God and with others ever more profoundly, to direct human action with virtues and above all with love". Benedict XVI, said the Pope, is a theologian who was "able to open and nourish his reflection and his cultural dialogue towards all these directions together, because faith and the Church live in our time and are friends of every search for truth".

With this prize being given in his name, continued the Pope, it is an opportunity for me to "address once again our affectionate, grateful and admiring thoughts to him". The Pope recalled that just a few months ago they celebrated Benedict XVI's 70th anniversary of his ordination to the priesthood. "We feel that he accompanies us in prayer, keeping his gaze constantly fixed on God's horizon".

"Let us not forget that Benedict XVI continued to study and write until the end of his pontificate", continued the Pope. About ten years ago, while fulfilling his governmental responsibilities, he was busy completing his trilogy on Jesus "and thus leaving us a unique personal testimony of his constant search for the face of the Lord".
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Title: Re: Pope Benedict RESIGNING
Post by: grace-land on November 13, 2021, 05:46:26 PM
Photos at the link

https://www.catholicnewsagency.com/news/249587/benedict-xvi-meets-with-recipients-of-the-ratzinger-prize?fbclid=IwAR3koxBF16vcAyidl6_j2IvcazlvUZxbN7x8OzvtbFx7gH2RkW5an49lE9A
Benedict XVI meets with recipients of the Ratzinger Prize
By Courtney Mares
Vatican City, Nov 13, 2021 / 13:35 pm

Benedict XVI met with four recipients of the Ratzinger Prize at the Mater Ecclesiae Monastery in the Vatican on Saturday.

The meeting lasted one hour and allowed each of the academics to discuss their work with the pope emeritus, according to a statement from the Joseph Ratzinger-Benedict XVI Vatican Foundation. Before parting ways, the group prayed a Hail Mary together.
 ::snipping3::


Title: Re: Pope Benedict RESIGNING
Post by: grace-land on November 16, 2021, 08:41:09 PM
https://cruxnow.com/vatican/2021/11/retired-popes-publisher-presents-him-with-copy-of-his-first-contract/

Retired pope’s publisher presents him with copy of his first contract
By Catholic News Service
Nov 16, 2021

BERLIN — The German publishing company Verlag Herder GmbH has paid tribute to retired Pope Benedict XVI, 94, as its most loyal and oldest living author.

The German Catholic news agency KNA reported that, during a recent visit to the Vatican, publisher Manuel Herder presented the retired pope with a copy of his first author’s contract from 65 years ago.

On Nov. 8, 1956, the then-29-year-old theologian signed a contract to work on the “Lexikon für Theologie und Kirche” (“Encyclopedia for Theology and the Church”). His contribution included an article on the “resurrection of the flesh.”

Herder said that, during his visit, the retired pope had shown great interest in the theological works he had brought with him.

“He laughed and said with amusement, ‘If you bring me so many books, you must also bring me the time to read them.'”
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Title: Re: Pope Benedict RESIGNING
Post by: grace-land on December 03, 2021, 09:15:16 PM
https://www.catholicnewsagency.com/news/249774/archbishop-ganswein-benedict-xvi-had-three-covid-vaccine-doses-out-of-conviction

Archbishop Gänswein: Benedict XVI had three COVID-19 vaccine doses ‘out of conviction’
By CNA Staff
Vatican City, Dec 3, 2021 / 12:00 pm

Archbishop Georg Gänswein has said that both he and Benedict XVI have received three COVID-19 vaccine doses “out of conviction.”

The pope emeritus’ private secretary made the remark in a nine-page interview in the December edition of the German publication Vatican-magazin.

The Vatican began administering doses of the Pfizer-BioNtech vaccine in January and confirmed in February that the pope emeritus had received the second dose of the vaccine. It began to administer the third dose in October.
 ::snipping3::
CNA Deutsch, CNA’s German-language news partner, reported that the archbishop described Benedict XVI as “stable in his physical frailty and, thank God, crystal clear in his head.”

“But it is also understandable that at 94 and after the death of his brother, which took its toll on him, his physical strength continued to decline. It is similar with his voice. The best medicine for him is humor and a steady daily rhythm,” the archbishop said.
 ::snipping3::


Title: Re: Pope Benedict RESIGNING
Post by: grace-land on December 09, 2021, 07:14:33 PM
Photos at the link

https://www.catholicnewsagency.com/news/249836/benedict-xvi-receives-nativity-scene-from-bavaria
Benedict XVI receives nativity scene from homeland of Bavaria
By CNA Staff
Vatican City, Dec 9, 2021 / 13:00 pm

Pope emeritus Benedict XVI received a nativity scene from his homeland of Bavaria on Wednesday.

An association dedicated to maintaining and promoting nativity scenes presented Archbishop Georg Gänswein, Benedict XVI’s personal secretary, with two cribs. One was for the retired German pope and the other for Pope Francis, reported CNA Deutsch, CNA’s German-language news partner.

The presentation of the nativity scenes took place during a pilgrimage to Rome by members of the Verband Bayerischer Krippenfreunde, led by its president, Msgr. Martin Martlreiter.

The group was joined by Bishop Rudolf Voderholzer of Regensburg, a diocese in Bavaria, a federal state in the southeast of Germany known as a Catholic heartland.

The nativity scenes were presented to Gänswein at the offices of the Pontifical Council for Promoting the New Evangelization.

Voderholzer met with Benedict XVI on Dec. 8, the Solemnity of the Immaculate Conception, at the Vatican.
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Title: Re: Pope Benedict RESIGNING
Post by: grace-land on January 16, 2022, 12:44:08 PM
https://www.catholicnewsagency.com/news/250103/10-things-to-know-about-pope-emeritus-benedict-xvi

10 things to know about Pope emeritus Benedict XVI
By Kevin J. Jones
Denver Newsroom, Jan 14, 2022 / 13:00 pm

Pope emeritus Benedict XVI served as pope from 2005 to 2013. He was born Joseph Ratzinger on April 16, 1927, at Marktl in the German state of Bavaria. He turns 95 soon.

There is lots to know about this man who became a priest, archbishop, a cardinal, and even a former pope.

He is fond of cats, pianos, and Mozart.

When he was a cardinal living in Rome, he would prepare plates of food for stray cats. If friendly cats near his Vatican offices were hurt, he would bandage their wounds.

As of 2005, the year he became pope, Benedict had a black-and-white short-haired cat named Chico living at his home in Bavaria.

When he moved to live in the Vatican apartments, he still had to follow the rules: no cats or dogs allowed.

His other interests include the piano, which he played for years. The composer Mozart is a favorite.

“His music still touches me very deeply, because it is so luminous and yet at the same time so deep,” he told interviewer Peter Seewald in the 1996 book “Salt of the Earth.” “His music is by no means just entertainment; it contains the whole tragedy of human existence.”

His brother Georg, who also became a priest, made a career of music: he became choirmaster at St. Peter’s Cathedral in the Bavarian city of Regensburg.
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Title: Re: Pope Benedict RESIGNING
Post by: grace-land on January 20, 2022, 05:18:47 PM
https://www.vaticannews.va/en/church/news/2022-01/sex-abuse-report-munich-ratzinger-marx-holy-see-statement.html

Report on abuse in Munich diocese: 497 victims in 74 years
20 January 2022, 14:49

A press conference presents the report by a law firm commissioned by the Church. The mandate was to look into the handling of abuse cases by the archbishops of Munich between 1945 and 2019, including then-Cardinal Ratzinger. Holy See Press Office director Matteo Bruni tells journalists: "We are waiting to examine the contents of the document” and expresses grief for abuses and closeness to all victims.
By Salvatore Cernuzio

At least 497 people were abused in the Archdiocese of Munich-Freising over a period of almost 74 years (from 1945 to 2019). Most of them were young; 247 are male victims and 182 are female. Sixty percent of the victims were between the ages of 8-14. The report identifies 235 perpetrators of abuse including 173 priests, nine deacons, five pastoral workers, 48 people from the school environment. This is the data presented in the report on clerical abuse in the Church of Munich, compiled by the Westpfahl Spilker Wastl law firm, which was commissioned by the archdiocese in February 2020.

Two-hour press conference
The report was presented this morning during a two-hour press conference in the "Haus der Deutschen Wirtschaft," in the presence of representatives of the diocese but in the absence of Cardinal Reinhard Marx. Also present were members of the Archdiocesan Abuse Victims' Council. During the meeting, excerpts from the over 1,000-page report were read out by attorney Martin Pusch, head of the law firm in charge, and by attorney Marion Westphal.

Some of the numbers
The report, focused on the handling of past abuse cases, is based on information gathered through colloquiums and interviews with victims as well as those who held, and still hold, positions of responsibility in the archdiocese. Of the 71 people surveyed, 56 of them responded to the request. Statements were compared at the end of August 2021. The names of sixty-five "actual or suspected" perpetrators of abuse were submitted. According to experts, the number of unreported crimes would be "considerably higher."

Reviewing the management
Specifically, the report reviews the management of a succession of archbishops: Cardinals Michael von Faulhaber, Joseph Wendel, Julius Doepfner, Joseph Ratzinger, Friedrich Wetter, and Reinhard Marx. The report also examined Cardinal Ratzinger's years as Prefect of the Congregation for the Doctrine of the Faith; Ratzinger, Pope emeritus Benedict XVI, served as Archbishop of Munich from 1977 to 1982. The independent commission reportedly identified four cases that occurred during the ministry of then-Cardinal Ratzinger, with those responsible for the abuses still remaining in office. The authors of the report believe he would have had responsibility, while acknowledging that the Pope Emeritus - as they put it - answered their questions and said he had no knowledge of the situation. The most egregious case, involving a priest from the diocese of Essen who was later transferred to Munich, has been known since 2010.
 ::snipping3::
https://www.catholicnewsagency.com/news/250159/archbishop-ganswein-benedict-xvi-is-praying-for-victims-in-wake-of-munich-abuse-report
Archbishop Gänswein: Benedict XVI is praying for victims in wake of Munich abuse report
By CNA Staff
Vatican City, Jan 20, 2022 / 10:57 am

https://www.catholicnewsagency.com/news/250158/cardinal-marx-shocked-and-ashamed-by-munich-abuse-report
Cardinal Marx ‘shocked and ashamed’ by Munich abuse report
By CNA Staff
Munich, Germany, Jan 20, 2022 / 09:20 am


Title: Re: Pope Benedict RESIGNING
Post by: grace-land on January 24, 2022, 01:05:29 PM
https://www.catholicnewsagency.com/news/250193/benedict-xvi-confirms-he-attended-disputed-1980-meeting-in-munich

Benedict XVI confirms he attended disputed 1980 meeting in Munich
By CNA Staff
Munich, Germany, Jan 24, 2022 / 03:38 am

Pope emeritus Benedict XVI has apologized for mistakenly saying that he did not attend a disputed meeting in 1980 while serving as archbishop of Munich and Freising.

In a statement published in the German Catholic weekly Die Tagepost on Jan. 24, the 94-year-old retired pope said that the mistake was the result of an editing error, reported CNA Deutsch, CNA’s German-language news partner.

Benedict XVI initially told investigators that he was not present at a meeting of archdiocesan officials on Jan. 15, 1980.

But in the statement, Archbishop Georg Gänswein, Benedict XVI’s private secretary, said that the pope emeritus “would now like to make it clear that, contrary to what was stated during the hearing, he took part in the ordinariate meeting on Jan. 15, 1980.”

“The statement to the contrary was therefore objectively incorrect,” he said.

“He would like to emphasize that this was not done out of bad faith, but was the result of an error in the editing of his statement. He will explain how this came about in the pending statement. He is very sorry for this mistake and asks for this mistake to be excused.”
 ::snipping3::
https://www.catholicnewsagency.com/news/250036/benedict-xvi-munich-and-cover-up-claims-why-an-old-allegation-is-resurfacing
Benedict XVI, Munich, and cover-up claims: why an old allegation is resurfacing
By Andrea Gagliarducci
Rome Newsroom, Jan 6, 2022 / 10:20 am


Title: Re: Pope Benedict RESIGNING
Post by: grace-land on January 26, 2022, 08:31:00 PM
https://www.vaticannews.va/en/vatican-city/news/2022-01/munich-report-sexual-clerical-abuse-germany-ratzinger.html

The Munich report and Ratzinger's fight against abuse
26 January 2022, 11:30

Following the publication of the investigation, the years of the Pope Emeritus’ Bavarian episcopate are in the spotlight. It's only fair to remember Benedict XVI’s fight against clerical paedophilia during his pontificate and his willingness to meet and listen to the victims, asking them for forgiveness.
By Andrea Tornielli

The words that were used during the press conference to present the report on abuse in the Archdiocese of Munich, as well as the seventy-two pages of the document dedicated to the brief Bavarian episcopate of Cardinal Joseph Ratzinger, have filled the newspapers in the past week and have triggered some very strong comments. The Pope emeritus, with the help of his collaborators, did not evade the questions of the law firm commissioned by the Archdiocese of Munich to draw up a report that examines a very long span of time, from the episcopate of Cardinal Michael von Faulhaber to that of the current Cardinal Reinhard Marx. Benedict XVI provided an 82-page response, after having been able to examine some of the documentation in the diocesan archives. Predictably, it was Ratzinger's four and a half years at the helm of the Bavarian diocese that monopolized the attention of commentators.
 ::snipping3::
https://www.catholicnewsagency.com/news/250224/munich-abuse-report-vatican-editorial-director-says-don-t-look-for-scapegoats
Munich abuse report: Vatican editorial director says don’t look for ‘scapegoats’
By Courtney Mares
Vatican City, Jan 26, 2022 / 08:15 am

https://www.catholicnewsagency.com/news/250210/munich-abuse-report-cardinal-wetter-apologizes-for-mishandling-of-case
Munich abuse report: Cardinal Wetter apologizes for mishandling case
By CNA Staff
Munich, Germany, Jan 25, 2022 / 12:00 pm


Title: Re: Pope Benedict RESIGNING
Post by: grace-land on February 08, 2022, 05:05:00 PM
Pope emeritus Benedict XVI:  Responding to the Munich abuse report

https://www.vaticannews.va/en/vatican-city/news/2022-02/benedict-xvi-ratzinger-abuse-claims-response-forgiveness.html
Abuse, Ratzinger: ‘Shame, sorrow, heartfelt request for forgiveness’
08 February 2022, 13:00

In a letter to the faithful of Munich, the Pope Emeritus speaks of clerical pedophilia, taking his cue from the words "mea maxima culpa" repeated at Mass: “We ourselves are drawn into this grievous fault whenever we neglect it or fail to confront it with the necessary decisiveness and responsibility."
By Vatican News

Pope Emeritus Benedict XVI intervenes directly and personally to respond to the report on abuse in the diocese of Munich and Freising where he was archbishop for less than five years. He does so with a text filled with a penitential aspect, which contains his personal "confession" and a look of faith on the "most grievous fault" of abuses and cover-ups.
 ::snipping3::
https://www.catholicnewsagency.com/news/250319/benedict-letter-munich-sexual-abuse-report-analysis
Benedict XVI asks abuse survivors for forgiveness as advisers defend handling of Munich cases
By CNA Staff
Vatican City, Feb 8, 2022 / 05:00 am


Title: Re: Pope Benedict RESIGNING
Post by: grace-land on February 08, 2022, 05:29:55 PM
Pope emeritus Benedict XVI:  Responding to the Munich abuse report

Video at the link:  Georg Gänswein, Benedict XVI's personal secretary, read out Benedict's letter to the media
https://www.ncregister.com/commentaries/benedict-xvi-issues-letter-on-munich-abuse-report-full-text
Benedict XVI Issues Letter on Munich Abuse Report — Full Text
‘The victims of sexual abuse have my deepest sympathy and I feel great sorrow for each individual case.’
February 8, 2022

https://www.catholicnewsagency.com/news/250321/full-text-benedict-xvi-s-letter-in-response-to-the-munich-abuse-report
Full text: Benedict XVI’s letter in response to the Munich abuse report
By Benedict XVI
Vatican City, Feb 8, 2022 / 05:01 am


Title: Re: Pope Benedict RESIGNING
Post by: grace-land on February 08, 2022, 05:39:17 PM
Pope emeritus Benedict XVI:  Responding to the Munich abuse report

https://www.ncregister.com/news/benedict-s-advisors-provide-analysis-on-munich-abuse-report-rebutting-criticisms-full-text
Benedict’s Advisors Provide Analysis on Munich Abuse Report, Rebutting Criticisms: Full Text
The three German canonists and an attorney present each criticism along with an explanatory response in the form of a 'fact-check.'
Edward Pentin  Vatican  February 8, 2022

https://www.catholicnewsagency.com/news/250323/full-text-benedict-xvi-s-advisers-analyze-munich-abuse-report
Full text: Benedict XVI’s advisers analyze Munich abuse report
By CNA Staff
Vatican City, Feb 8, 2022 / 05:35 am


Title: Re: Pope Benedict RESIGNING
Post by: grace-land on February 10, 2022, 05:41:22 PM
https://www.ncregister.com/blog/archbishop-gaenswein-movement-wants-to-destroy-benedict-xvi-s-life-and-work

Archbishop Gänswein: Movement Wants to Destroy Benedict XVI’s Life and Work
Speaking to an Italian newspaper, the pope emeritus’ personal secretary noted that such people ‘never loved him as an individual, his theology, his pontificate.’
Edward Pentin 
February 10, 2022

VATICAN CITY — Archbishop Georg Gänswein has claimed that a movement is not only out to destroy Benedict XVI’s life and work but also views the recent accusations of mishandling abuse as an opportunity to erase him from the official memory of the Church.

In Feb. 9 comments to the Italian daily Corriere della Sera, the pope emeritus’ personal secretary said he believed a movement exists “that really wants to destroy the person and the work [of Benedict XVI].

“It has never loved him as an individual, his theology, his pontificate,” he said. 

Archbishop Gänswein added that members of this movement see recent attacks against him as “an ideal opportunity for a reckoning, like a quest for a damnatio memoriae [condemnation of memory so a person is excluded from official accounts].”
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Title: Re: Pope Benedict RESIGNING
Post by: grace-land on February 10, 2022, 05:44:30 PM
https://www.catholicnews.com/retired-pope-has-full-support-of-pope-francis-aide-says/

Retired pope has full support of Pope Francis, aide says
By: Carol Glatz
Date: February 10, 2022

VATICAN CITY (CNS) — Pope Francis was among those showing their support for retired Pope Benedict XVI, sending his predecessor “a beautiful letter,” according to the former pope’s secretary.

In the letter, Pope Francis “speaks as a shepherd, as a brother” and “expressed once again his complete trust, his full support and also his prayers,” said the secretary, Archbishop Georg Gänswein.

The archbishop spoke to the Italian news program TG1 Feb. 9 about the retired pope’s letter in response to a report on sexual abuse cases in the German Archdiocese of Munich and Freising, which the former pope headed as Cardinal Joseph Ratzinger from 1977 to 1982.
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Title: Re: Pope Benedict RESIGNING
Post by: grace-land on February 14, 2022, 12:40:55 PM
https://www.catholicnewsagency.com/news/250375/archbishop-ganswein-benedict-response-munich-abuse-report

Archbishop Gänswein tells inside story of Benedict XVI’s response to the Munich abuse report
By CNA Staff
Vatican City, Feb 14, 2022 / 05:40 am

Archbishop Georg Gänswein has shared the inside story of how Pope emeritus Benedict XVI responded to a report criticizing his handling of four abuse cases when he led Germany’s Archdiocese of Munich and Freising.

In an exclusive interview with EWTN’s Vatican Bureau Chief Andreas Thonhauser, Benedict XVI’s personal secretary defended the retired pope’s actions, described his pioneering work in combating clerical abuse despite resistance at the Vatican, and spoke of Pope Francis’ strong personal support for his predecessor. The full interview will air on Feb. 14 at 6:30 p.m. EST on a special episode of EWTN’s “Vaticano” program.

The interview was conducted on Feb. 11, days after Benedict XVI personally requested forgiveness from abuse survivors following the publication of the report covering his tenure as Munich archbishop from 1977 to 1982.

The 94-year-old retired pope said in a letter that his pain was all the greater as he had “borne great responsibility in the Catholic Church.”

The letter was accompanied by a three-page rebuttal of the report’s criticisms, signed by four advisers of the pope emeritus.

‘A mistake was made’

In the interview, Gänswein acknowledged the controversy generated by an 82-page statement submitted on Benedict’s behalf to investigators compiling the study.
 ::snipping3::
https://www.catholicnewsagency.com/news/250379/archbishop-ganswein-pope-emeritus-benedict-personal-secretary
Here's what you need to know about Archbishop Gänswein, Benedict XVI's personal secretary
By Jonah McKeown
Denver Newsroom, Feb 14, 2022 / 05:45 am


Title: Re: Pope Benedict RESIGNING
Post by: grace-land on February 15, 2022, 05:42:19 PM
Video, with English commentary and translation, at the link

https://www.catholicnewsagency.com/news/250376/full-text-ewtn-interview-archbishop-ganswein
Full text: EWTN’s exclusive interview with Archbishop Gänswein
By CNA Staff
Vatican City, Feb 14, 2022 / 16:30 pm

Editor’s note: In a Feb. 11 interview in Rome, Archbishop Georg Gänswein, the personal secretary of Pope Emeritus Benedict XVI, spoke at length about the controversy surrounding then-Joseph Ratzinger’s handling of clerical sexual abuse cases while archbishop of Munich and Friesing. The on-camera interview was conducted in German by EWTN Rome Bureau Chief Andreas Thonhauser. The English translation appears below. EWTN will broadcast the full interview on Feb. 14 at 6:30 p.m. EST. Minor editing changes were made for clarity.

Excellency, you are the private secretary of Pope emeritus Benedict XVI. How is he doing? How did he receive the abuse report and what does he think of the media storm accompanying it?

This morning we celebrated Mass together, like every day. Then we prayed Lauds and had breakfast. And then he went about his business, and I am here now. He is doing well, the pressure was lifted, thank God, after his letter had been published together with the fact check. But I might say, he was always calm and full of trust in God. Of course, it’s one thing to resist pressure, and quite another to withstand pressure internally. But, thank God, he has managed to do so, he is calm and, above all, he has never lost his sense of humor.
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Title: Re: Pope Benedict RESIGNING
Post by: grace-land on March 17, 2022, 05:23:19 PM
https://cruxnow.com/vatican/2022/03/archbishop-ganswein-defends-retired-pope-criticizes-munich-abuse-report

Archbishop Gänswein defends retired pope, criticizes Munich abuse report
By Catholic News Service
Mar 17, 2022

HAMBURG, Germany — Archbishop Georg Gänswein, private secretary of retired Pope Benedict XVI, has defended his boss and criticized the Munich abuse report, which made international headlines when it was released in January.

The report alleges misconduct by Munich Archbishop Joseph Ratzinger, later Pope Benedict, in dealing with four abusers during his time as head of the archdiocese from 1977 to 1982. The lawyers who conducted the investigation on behalf of the archdiocese accused the retired pope of misconduct in four cases. The allegations included the transfer of clerics who had committed criminal offenses and were allowed to continue pastoral care elsewhere.

“Not one of the allegations stood up to scrutiny of the files,” Gänswein said in an interview with the newspaper Die Zeit, published March 17. The German Catholic news agency KNA said Gänswein told Die Zeit the report was “in reality an indictment.”

However, he said, the former pope was right to provide testimony for it: “What a storm would have broken over him if he had refused!”

KNA reported Gänswein said Pope Benedict had committed a “serious oversight” with his statement about a meeting Jan. 15, 1980, in which a decision was made about a priest who was an abuser. At first, the retired pope denied taking part in the meeting, but he later corrected this. That is why some people had accused him of lying, an accusation the archbishop said “hurt” the 94-year-old.

He said the pope’s participation in the report had been demanding. In order to answer the catalogue of questions, 8,000 pages of archives had to be sifted through, and many of the questions had been “uncleanly and downright suggestively formulated.”
 ::snipping3::


Title: Re: Pope Benedict RESIGNING
Post by: grace-land on March 20, 2022, 04:44:51 PM
https://www.catholicnewsagency.com/news/250738/pope-emeritus-benedict-xvi-consecration-russia-ukraine

Will Pope Emeritus Benedict XVI join in the consecration of Russia and Ukraine? Here's the answer
By CNA Staff
Washington, D.C. Newsroom, Mar 20, 2022 / 10:30 am

Pope Emeritus Benedict XVI will join with Pope Francis and the bishops of the world in praying for the consecration of Russia and Ukraine on March 25.

It is expected that he will do so privately, however, and not be present at the consecration ceremony at St. Peter’s Basilica
.

CNA Deutsch, CNA’s German-language sister news agency, confirmed those details Sunday with the retired pope’s personal secretary, Archbishop Georg Gänswein.
 ::snipping3::

https://www.catholicnewsagency.com/news/250735/pope-francis-appeal-to-end-ukraine-war
Pope Francis pleads for an end to 'abhorrent' war in Ukraine
By Shannon Mullen
Washington, D.C. Newsroom, Mar 20, 2022 / 05:28 am
 ::snipping3::
Also on Sunday, Pope Francis also called on the faithful to join him on March 25 in praying for the consecration of Ukraine and Russia to the Immaculate Heart of Mary. EWTN will broadcast the consecration ceremony at 12 noon EST.


Title: Re: Pope Benedict RESIGNING
Post by: grace-land on April 14, 2022, 08:04:21 PM
https://www.vaticannews.va/en/pope/news/2022-04/pope-francis-jesuits-malta-conversation-apostolic-journey-church.html

Pope to Maltese Jesuits: Vocation of the Church is to evangelize
14 April 2022, 10:00

During his recent Apostolic Journey to Malta, Pope Francis met with the Jesuits working in the Mediterranean island nation, and engaged them in conversation on issues ranging from climate change, the Church’s synodal journey, and the challenge of migration.
By Benedict Mayaki, SJ

Pope Francis’ 36th Apostolic Journey abroad saw him visit the Mediterranean island of Malta from 2 – 3 April. The two-day trip, themed “They showed us unusual kindness” drew attention to the plight of migrants who cross the Mediterranean, and promoted evangelization in the country.

Among the activities on the Holy Father’s schedule during the trip was a meeting with the members of the Society of Jesus in the country, who assembled at the Nunciature on the morning of 3 April. Pope Francis engaged the 38 Jesuits present in spontaneous conversation, responding to their questions about the Church and the world.

The Church of the future

The Holy Father responded to a question about the future of the Church and the synodal journey.

Saying that his predecessor Benedict XVI was a “prophet of this Church of the future”, Pope Francis pointed toward a Church that will become smaller and may lose many privileges, but become humbler, more spiritual and more authentic.
 ::snipping3::
https://www.catholicnewsagency.com/news/250979/benedict-xvi-was-a-prophet-of-church-s-future-pope-francis-tells-malta-s-jesuits
Benedict XVI was ‘a prophet’ of Church’s future, Pope Francis tells Malta’s Jesuits
By Courtney Mares
Vatican City, Apr 14, 2022 / 04:30 am


Title: Re: Pope Benedict RESIGNING
Post by: grace-land on April 14, 2022, 08:18:54 PM
https://www.catholicnewsagency.com/news/250977/catholics-invited-to-congratulate-benedict-xvi-on-95th-birthday

Catholics invited to congratulate Benedict XVI on his 95th birthday
By CNA Staff
Vatican City, Apr 14, 2022 / 02:00 am

Catholics around the world are being invited to congratulate Pope emeritus Benedict XVI on his 95th birthday.

The Tagespost Foundation for Catholic Journalism has created a website to collect the messages, which will then be shown to Benedict XVI.

“I know he is very happy about it,” said Archbishop Georg Gänswein, the private secretary of the pope emeritus, reported CNA Deutsch, CNA’s German-language news partner.

Benedict XVI will celebrate his 95th birthday on April 16, Holy Saturday. He was born Joseph Alois Ratzinger in 1927 in Marktl am Inn, a small Bavarian town not far from Austria, also on a Holy Saturday.

Looking back to his birth in his memoir, published before his election as pope, he wrote: “The fact that the birthday was the last day of Holy Week and the eve of Easter was always noted in the family history, because it was connected with the fact that I was baptized right on the morning of my birthday with the water that had just been consecrated in the ‘Easter Vigil’ celebrated at that time in the morning. To be the first baptized with the new water was considered a significant providential event.”

He continued: “The fact that my life was thus immersed in the Paschal Mystery from the beginning in this way has always filled me with gratitude, for this could only be a sign of blessing.”

“Admittedly — it had not been Easter Sunday, but only Holy Saturday. But the longer I think about it, the more it seems to me to be in keeping with the essence of our human life, which is still waiting for Easter, not yet in full light, but nevertheless confidently moving toward it.”
 ::snipping3::


Title: Re: Pope Benedict RESIGNING
Post by: grace-land on April 16, 2022, 04:55:58 PM
Happy 95th Birthday!   :smt113

https://www.vaticannews.va/en/pope/news/2022-04/pope-emeritus-benedict-xvi-95-birthday-interview-ganswein.html
Pope Emeritus Benedict XVI turns 95 on Holy Saturday
16 April 2022, 12:48

As Pope Emeritus Benedict XVI turns 95 years old on Holy Saturday, his personal secretary, Archbishop Georg Gänswein, grants an interview to Radio Horeb in Munich, and describes the daily life of a man who "has shaped the Church and theology".
By Mario Galgano and Johannes Wieczorek

It was 16 April 1927 - a Holy Saturday - when Joseph Ratzinger, later Pope Benedict XVI, was born in the Bavarian town of Marktl am Inn. This year, too, his birthday falls on the Holy Vigil of Easter.

As Archbishop Georg Gänswein, Benedict XVI's private secretary, points out, his personality has profoundly shaped the Church and theology. "The Pope Emeritus," says Archbishop Gänswein, "is in good spirits. He is of course physically relatively weak and frail, but lucid."
 ::snipping3::
https://www.catholicnewsagency.com/news/250989/5-things-to-know-about-benedict-xvi-on-his-95th-birthday
5 things to know about Benedict XVI on his 95th birthday
By Hannah Brockhaus
Vatican City, Apr 16, 2022 / 01:00 am


Title: Re: Pope Benedict RESIGNING
Post by: grace-land on April 20, 2022, 07:19:32 PM
https://www.ncregister.com/blog/parolin-maintains-vaccine-mandates

Cardinal Parolin Orders All Vatican Vaccine Mandates to Remain in Place

The Holy See has chosen not to follow the lead of many EU countries, including Italy, that are already easing their COVID-19 restrictions.
Edward Pentin   April 20, 2022

VATICAN CITY — Despite a steady lifting of COVID-19 restrictions worldwide and the elimination of all rules in some countries, Cardinal Pietro Parolin, the Vatican secretary of state, has ordered that the Vatican’s tight controls will continue.

In a decree issued April 20, the cardinal said the decision had been taken due to the continuation of the current pandemic situation, which “requires specific extraordinary and exceptional measures to counter it and ensure the safe conduct of activities.” The Vatican also published on Wednesday, for the first time, a March 30 order from the president of the Pontifical Commission for Vatican City State that extended all restrictions until April 30 for personnel and visitors to the small territory. 
 ::snipping3::
On April 20, the German Catholic news agency KNA reported that Benedict XVI’s personal secretary Archbishop Georg Gänswein has had COVID-19 since April 11. Despite being triple vaccinated he remains in quarantine as he continues to test positive for the virus.

Archbishop Gänswein has assured the faithful that Benedict XVI and all others in the Pope Emeritus’ Mater Ecclesiae residence have tested negative for the virus.

 ::snipping3::


Title: Re: Pope Benedict RESIGNING
Post by: grace-land on April 28, 2022, 07:01:38 PM
Photos at the link

https://www.catholicnewsagency.com/news/251080/benedict-xvi-greets-st-john-paul-ii-s-long-time-secretary-on-canonization-anniversary
Benedict XVI greets St. John Paul II’s long-time secretary on canonization anniversary
By CNA Staff
Vatican City, Apr 28, 2022 / 02:45 am

St. John Paul II’s long-time secretary visited Pope emeritus Benedict XVI on Wednesday.

Cardinal Stanisław Dziwisz met with the pope emeritus at the Vatican on April 27, the eighth anniversary of the Polish pope’s canonization.

The Archdiocese of Kraków, southern Poland, said that Dziwisz, who led the archdiocese from 2005 to 2016, celebrated Mass at the tomb of St. John Paul II in St. Peter’s Basilica.

The cardinal then greeted Benedict XVI at his Vatican residence, the Mater Ecclesiae Monastery. The German theologian succeeded John Paul II as pope in 2005 and retired in 2013.

Pope Francis canonized St. John Paul II, who led the Catholic Church from 1978 to 2005, on April 27, 2014.

The pope recalled the anniversary at this Wednesday general audience.
 ::snipping3::


Title: Re: Pope Benedict RESIGNING
Post by: grace-land on May 16, 2022, 05:34:11 PM
https://www.catholicnewsagency.com/news/251252/benedict-xvi-95th-birthday-wishes-from-around-world-made-me-very-happy

Benedict XVI: 95th birthday wishes from around world ‘made me very happy’
By CNA Staff
Vatican City, May 16, 2022 / 10:40 am

Pope emeritus Benedict XVI has said that receiving congratulatory messages from around the world on his 95th birthday made him “very happy.”

The retired German pope received almost 3,000 greetings in 24 languages via the website benedictusXVI.org, CNA Deutsch, CNA’s German-language news partner, reported.

On the website of the Tagespost Foundation, originally launched by Benedict XVI, the pope emeritus thanked well-wishers.

He said: “On the occasion of my 95th birthday, I received a great number of messages from around the world wishing me a happy birthday. These many expressions of devotion and solidarity have made me very happy. In my gratitude, I feel united with everyone in prayer.“

The messages were mainly written in German, English, Italian, and Polish.
 ::snipping3::


Title: Re: Pope Benedict RESIGNING
Post by: grace-land on July 06, 2022, 04:58:16 PM
Video at the link

https://www.catholicnewsagency.com/news/251724/archbishop-ganswein-moved-to-tears-over-benedict-comment-about-journey-to-heaven
Archbishop Gänswein moved to tears over Benedict XVI's comment about journey to heaven
By CNA Staff
Denver Newsroom, Jul 5, 2022 / 18:10 pm

The personal secretary of Pope Benedict XVI, Archbishop Georg Gänswein, could not hold back tears as he recalled what the pope emeritus once told him about his journey to heaven.

The scene took place at the Nymphenburg Palace in Munich, Germany, during a June celebration organized by the Joseph Ratzinger/Pope Benedict XVI Foundation for the 95th birthday of the pope emeritus. The event was broadcast in German on EWTN.

Gänswein was visibly choked up as he recalled that Benedict XVI once told him that “I would never have believed that the last stretch of the journey that would take me from the Mater Ecclesiae monastery (where he currently resides) to the gates of heaven with St. Peter would be so long.”

Benedict XVI turned 95 on April 16, a little more than nine years after he resigned from the papacy on Feb. 28, 2013.
 ::snipping3::


Title: Re: Pope Benedict RESIGNING
Post by: grace-land on August 24, 2022, 03:02:14 PM
https://www.catholicnewsagency.com/news/252109/former-vatican-spokesman-father-federico-lombardi-pope-emeritus-benedict-xvi-is-ready-to-meet-the-lord

Former Vatican spokesman: Benedict XVI is ready to meet the Lord
By CNA Staff
Denver Newsroom, Aug 24, 2022 / 14:00 pm

Father Federico Lombardi, director of the Vatican Press Office from 2006 to 2016, said that Pope Emeritus Benedict XVI is ready for “the definitive encounter” with God.

The Jesuit priest made the observation in an interview with Avvenire, the newspaper of the Italian bishops, on the occasion of his upcoming 80th birthday, which he will celebrate on Aug. 29.

In the interview, published Aug. 22, the priest, who was also provincial superior of the Italian Jesuits and director of the Vatican Television Center, recalled that he was able to accompany Benedict XVI “for almost his entire pontificate from 2006 until his resignation from the Petrine ministry in February of 2013.”

Lombardi stressed that Benedict XVI “is a scholarly man” and would define him as “a pope theologian with very clear ideas.”

The Jesuit priest also said a great virtue of the pope emeritus is “humility. In the conversations with me he always spoke in Italian and not in German,” a language Lombardi learned when he studied theology in Frankfurt, where he was ordained in 1972.

He only sometimes spoke in German, when he spoke with his secretary Archbishop Georg Gänswein, and, Lombardi said, “he had the courtesy to repeat the same things in Italian” although it was not necessary.

His last meeting with Benedict XVI
 ::snipping3::


Title: Re: Pope Benedict RESIGNING
Post by: grace-land on August 27, 2022, 05:23:31 PM
Video at the link...

https://www.catholicnewsagency.com/news/252143/new-cardinals-and-pope-francis-pay-visit-to-pope-emeritus-benedict-xvi
New cardinals and Pope Francis pay visit to Pope Emeritus Benedict XVI
By CNA Staff
Washington, D.C. Newsroom, Aug 27, 2022 / 12:55 pm
(https://www.catholicnewsagency.com/storage/image/benedictxvi-and-popefrancis-2022.jpg?w=670&h=447)
Pope Francis visits Benedict XVI on Aug. 27th, 2022 | Vatican Media

Pope Francis and the new cardinals visited Pope Emeritus Benedict XVI at the Mater Ecclesiae Monastery after the consistory held Saturday at St. Peter's Basilica.

In the brief but emotional meeting, Pope Francis greeted Benedict XVI with great affection and made the sign of the cross on his forehead. Then the new cardinals introduced themselves one by one to exchange brief messages.

The Holy See Press Office reported that “after having received their blessing, together with that of Pope Francis and having prayed the Salve Regina together, the new Cardinals went to the Apostolic Palace or the Paul VI Hall for courtesy visits. ”.
 ::snipping3::
https://www.vaticannews.va/en/pope/news/2022-08/pope-francis-and-new-cardinals-visit-benedict-xvi.html
Pope Francis and new cardinals visit Benedict XVI
27 August 2022, 21:29


Title: Re: Pope Benedict RESIGNING
Post by: grace-land on August 30, 2022, 05:27:39 PM
https://www.catholicnewsagency.com/news/252153/international-website-dedicated-to-benedict-xvi-aims-to-be-a-beacon-in-stormy-seas

International website dedicated to Benedict XVI aims to be a ‘beacon in stormy seas
By AC Wimmer
CNA Newsroom, Aug 30, 2022 / 05:15 am
(https://www.catholicnewsagency.com/storage/image/benedictoxvi-vaticanmedia-23082022.jpg.webp?w=670&h=447)
Pope Emeritus Benedict XVI | Vatican Media

After a website dedicated to Benedict XVI received thousands of congratulations in 24 languages on the occasion of his 95th birthday this year, the organizers moved to make www.BenedictusXVI.com available in English, broaden its scope — and take it international.

Launched on Aug. 28, the new international version in English aims to provide a “beacon in the stormy seas” of rampant secularization, the Tagespost Foundation announced.

Currently, the site offers a newsletter of inspirational quotes and excerpts from key texts by the noted theologian, biographical notes, background information, and a statement on the Munich report into clerical sexual abuse.

“The goal of the BenedictusXVI.com project is to build an attractive digital knowledge portal that will become the authorized international collection point on the life, thought and work of Joseph Ratzinger/Benedict XVI,” in “cooperation with experts in Germany and abroad,” the organizers told CNA in a written statement.

“The pope emeritus himself has given his consent to this project.”

The portal’s development is a joint project between the Tagespost Foundation for Catholic Journalism and the Institute Pope Benedict XVI.
 ::snipping3::

--Edited to add the article below:

https://www.ncregister.com/blog/new-website-benedictusxvi
New Website Explores the Life and Work of Pope Emeritus Benedict
BenedictusXVI.com is a collaborative effort by the German Tagespost Foundation for Catholic Journalism and the Pope Benedict XVI Institute.
Edward Pentin   September 22, 2022


Title: Re: Pope Benedict RESIGNING
Post by: grace-land on September 23, 2022, 05:58:57 PM
https://www.catholicnewsagency.com/news/252369/benedict-xvi-writes-about-inner-drama-of-being-a-christian-in-new-letter

Benedict XVI writes about ‘inner drama of being a Christian’ in new letter
By Andrea Gagliarducci
Rome Newsroom, Sep 23, 2022 / 05:29 am

In a new letter, Benedict XVI praised the story of a woman who lived “the inner drama of being a Christian” and dedicated her life to the spiritual encounter with Christ in eucharistic adoration and other practices.

The pope emeritus wrote that his own personal experience was similar to what Mother Julia Verhaeghe went through in a letter to the author of a new biography.

The writer, Father Hermann Geissler, is a former official at the Congregation for the Doctrine of the Faith and a member of the Spiritual Family “The Work” that Mother Julia founded and Pope John Paul II designated as a family of consecrated life in 2001.

In his letter to Geissler, made available to CNA, Benedict did not hide the fact that he had “the fear that her life could be of little interest as a whole because it lacks any external drama.”

Benedict praised the author for making “the inner drama of being a Christian visible, writing a genuinely fascinating biography. The external path of this life, which leads from Belgium through Austria and Hungary to Rome, with a focal point in Austria, becomes a reflection of the interior path through which this woman was led.”

“In this way, the true drama of life becomes visible, which is found above all in the encounter with Paul and, through him, with Christ himself, allowing others to retrace it,” Benedict added.

“All the external and internal drama of faith is present in her life. The tension described here is particularly captivating because it is similar to what I have experienced since the 1940s.”
 ::snipping3::
Benedict XVI, who turned 95 in April, often spoke about the need for contact with God and said that the encounter with Jesus was the answer to the world’s challenges.


Title: Re: Pope Benedict RESIGNING
Post by: grace-land on October 07, 2022, 06:52:53 PM
https://www.vaticannews.va/en/vatican-city/news/2022-10/ratzinger-benedict-xvi-foundation-prize-fedou-weiler.html

2022 Ratzinger Prize goes to theologian and to professor of law
07 October 2022, 13:12

Michel Fédou, SJ, and Professor Joseph H.H. Weiler are the winners of the Ratzinger Prize 2022, the prestigious award that is given to scholars who stand out for their scientific research in the theological field.
By Linda Bordoni

On 1 December next, Pope Francis will award the Ratzinger Prize 2022 to Professor Michel Fédou, SJ, and to Professor Joseph Halevi Horowitz Weiler during a ceremony in the Apostolic Palace’s  Clementine Hall.

The prestigious award is assigned – according to what is recommended by the Ratzinger Foundation’s Statutes – to “scholars that stood out for their publications and/or scientific research”.

It was launched in 2011 to recognize scholars whose work demonstrated authentic and meaningful contributions to theology, much like Pope Benedict XVI had throughout his life. In the past few years, the prize has also been given to academics, composers, artists, and writers who have made notable contributions to the world of arts related to Christianity.
 ::snipping3::
https://www.catholicnewsagency.com/news/252495/french-jesuit-and-american-legal-scholar-win-ratzinger-prize
French Jesuit and American legal scholar win 2022 Ratzinger Prize
07 October 2022, 13:12


Title: Re: Pope Benedict RESIGNING
Post by: grace-land on October 18, 2022, 07:45:08 PM
https://www.catholicnewsagency.com/news/252558/what-john-paul-ii-and-benedict-xvi-saw-at-the-second-vatican-council

What two future popes saw at the Second Vatican Council
By Kevin J. Jones
Denver Newsroom, Oct 18, 2022 / 09:00 am

Sixty years ago this month, the Second Vatican Council brought together thousands of bishops, Catholic leaders and even non-Catholic observers to reflect on the role of the Church in the modern world.

Pope Francis’ two immediate predecessors, John Paul II and Benedict XVI, were eyewitnesses to this three-year event, which took place from 1962 to 1965. After they were elected to the papacy, their pontificates brought the legacy of the Second Vatican Council into the 21st century and taught generations of Catholics how to bring Christ into their lives — and into the world.

For Benedict XVI, the council brought ‘joy, hope, and encouragement’

“It was a unique experience for me, after all the fervor and enthusiasm of preparation, I could see a living Church,” he said in an October 2012 general audience. Benedict recounted how almost 3,000 council fathers joined Pope John XXIII to bring the Church “to learn at the school of the Holy Spirit, the true driving force of the council.”

“Only rarely in history has it been possible, as it was then, almost ‘to touch,’ to feel tangibly the universality of the Church at a moment of the great fulfillment of her mission to take the Gospel in every epoch to the ends of the earth,” Benedict said.

John Paul II said the council has been “a gift to the Church.” It remains a “fundamental event” not only to understand the Church, but especially to explore “the abiding presence of the risen Christ beside his Bride in the course of world events.”

The council was the Church’s “experience of faith” and abandonment to God, trusting him and certain of being loved, the pontiff said in a Feb. 27, 2000, address to a conference studying how the council was implemented.
 ::snipping3::


Title: Re: Pope Benedict RESIGNING
Post by: grace-land on October 21, 2022, 07:20:28 PM
https://www.catholicnewsagency.com/news/252608/benedict-xvi-reflects-on-vatican-ii-in-new-letter

Benedict XVI reflects on Vatican II in new letter
By AC Wimmer, Shannon Mullen
Washington, D.C. Newsroom, Oct 21, 2022 / 07:05 am

In a new letter, Pope Emeritus Benedict XVI characterizes the Second Vatican Council as “not only meaningful, but necessary.”

Released Thursday, the letter is addressed to Father Dave Pivonka, TOR, president of Franciscan University of Steubenville in Steubenville, Ohio, which concludes a two-day conference Friday centered on the theology of Benedict XVI/Joseph Ratzinger.

Nearly three and a half typewritten pages long, the letter provides fresh observations about Vatican II from one of the few remaining theologians in the Catholic Church to have personally participated in the historic council, which opened 60 years ago this month. You can read the full letter at the bottom of this story.

“When I began to study theology in January 1946, no one thought of an Ecumenical Council,” the 95-year-old retired pope recalls in the letter.
 ::snipping3::


Title: Re: Pope Benedict RESIGNING
Post by: grace-land on November 03, 2022, 06:57:05 PM
https://www.catholicnewsagency.com/news/252714/from-real-life-papal-artist-unveils-painting-of-benedict-xvi-as-pope-emeritus

From ‘real life’: Papal artist unveils painting of Benedict XVI as pope emeritus
By Hannah Brockhaus
Rome Newsroom, Nov 3, 2022 / 07:03 am
(https://www.catholicnewsagency.com/storage/image/screen-shot-2022-11-04-at-12.15.22-am.png?w=600)
Natalia Tsarkova’s painting of Pope Emeritus Benedict XVI in her studio in Rome. Daniel Ibáñez / CNA

Natalia Tsarkova, official portrait artist to the popes for more than 20 years, likes to work from real life.

“I am so meticulous about details. I have to see and touch and feel everything,” she said.

But for her latest painting, a portrait of Benedict XVI in his life as pope emeritus, some objects could not be brought back to her studio in the historic center of Rome.

To make a study of his rosary, Tsarkova had to visit the retired pope at his home, the Mater Ecclesiae Monastery in Vatican City, “because Pope Benedict won’t part with his rosary,” she said.

The Russian-born artist, who has lived in Rome full time since 1995, told EWTN News in an interview last week that Benedict’s rosary is “part of him; it’s his favorite rosary.”

In 2006 and 2007, Tsarkova painted two other official Vatican portraits of Pope Benedict XVI. Now, she is portraying him in his “mission” as pope emeritus.

“Because [his] life isn’t over,” the artist said at her home and studio close to Piazza Navona. “Here are books, manuscripts, that his guardian angel is holding and pointing out, ‘Holy Father, look at these books that you’ve written. There is a lot more to publish to give light to your writings,’” she indicated.

Tsarkova unveiled the painting, which took four years to create, during a ceremony on Nov. 3 in Palazzo Cesi, a building close to the Vatican.

The large artwork spans almost 6 by 6.5 feet.
 ::snipping3::


Title: Re: Pope Benedict RESIGNING
Post by: grace-land on November 10, 2022, 07:26:08 PM
https://www.catholicnewsagency.com/news/252781/benedict-xvi-tells-ukrainian-archbishop-i-continue-to-pray-for-peace

Benedict XVI tells Ukrainian archbishop: ‘I continue to pray for peace’
By Andrea Gagliarducci
Rome Newsroom, Nov 10, 2022 / 02:53 am
(https://www.catholicnewsagency.com/storage/image/whatsapp-image-2022-11-09-at-23.14.43.jpeg?w=600)
Major Archbishop Sviatoslav Shevchuk with Pope Emeritus Benedict XVI and Arcbbishop Georg Gänswein, Nov. 9, 2022. Rome's Secretariat of the Major Archbishop of the Greek Catholic Church

The leader of the Ukrainian Greek Catholic Church met with Pope Emeritus Benedict XVI in the Mater Ecclesiae monastery Nov. 9 and asked him to keep praying for Ukraine.

The pope emeritus told Major Archbishop Sviatoslav Shevchuk that he “keeps praying for Ukraine.”

The last meeting between the two dates back to February 2019. During that meeting, Benedict proved to be incredibly informed of the events in Ukraine and stressed that he always prayed for peace in Ukraine.

In their meeting on Nov. 9, Shevchuk spoke about the war in Ukraine, presented the humanitarian situation to the pope emeritus, reiterated that the war in Ukraine is ideological and colonial, and compared it to the Nazi regime.

He also thanked Benedict XVI for his letter at the beginning of the war.
 ::snipping3::


Title: Re: Pope Benedict RESIGNING
Post by: grace-land on November 28, 2022, 06:59:51 PM
https://www.catholicnewsagency.com/news/252930/pope-francis-benedict-xvi-was-leader-in-responding-to-sexual-abuse

Pope Francis: Benedict XVI was ‘leader’ in responding to sexual abuse
By Jonah McKeown
St. Louis, Mo., Nov 28, 2022 / 16:30 pm

In a recent interview Pope Francis said his predecessor Pope Emeritus Benedict XVI was a leader in “taking responsibility” and responding with transparency to clerical sexual abuse — the latest defense by the Holy Father of his predecessor, who is facing criticism in his native Germany for his handling of several abuse cases as an archbishop decades ago.

In the Nov. 22 interview published Monday by America Magazine, Pope Francis discussed a wide range of topics including the Church’s response to revelations of abuse by clergy. Francis said although “official statistics” show that clergy abuse makes up a very small percentage of all abuse cases in society, f there had been only one case, it would have been monstrous.”

Before the 2002 “Boston crisis,” abusers were simply moved from place to place as part of the institutional cover-up, he said.

“The practice, which is still maintained in some families and institutions today, was to cover it up. The Church made the decision to not cover up [anymore]. From there progress was made in judicial processes, the creation of the Pontifical Commission for the Protection of Minors,” the pope said, as reported by America.

“Here, a great [example] is Cardinal [Seán] O’Malley of Boston, who had the mindset to institutionalize [the protection of minors] within the Church. When honest people see how the Church is taking responsibility for this monstrosity, they understand that the Church is one thing while the abusers who are being punished by the Church are another. The leader in taking these decisions was Benedict XVI.”

During his almost eight-year pontificate, which began in 2005, Benedict XVI dismissed hundreds of abusers from the clerical state, regularly met abuse survivors, and addressed the abuse crisis in Ireland in a 2010 pastoral letter. He resigned from the papacy in 2013.

This is not the first time Pope Francis has spoken in defense of his predecessor’s record on responding to sexual abuse. Amid an ongoing reckoning over Benedict XVI’s handling of abuse cases in Munich, where he served as archbishop from 1977 to 1982, Pope Francis called to offer his support to Benedict XVI as the pope emeritus faced criticism.
 ::snipping3::

==The transcript of the Nov. 22 interview at the link below:

https://www.americamagazine.org/faith/2022/11/28/pope-francis-interview-america-244225
Exclusive: Pope Francis denounces polarization, talks women’s ordination, the U.S. bishops and more
The Editors
November 28, 2022


Title: Re: Pope Benedict RESIGNING
Post by: grace-land on December 01, 2022, 08:50:04 PM
https://www.catholicnewsagency.com/news/252958/pope-francis-the-theology-of-benedict-xvi-is-fruitful-for-the-future

Pope Francis praises ‘fruitful’ theology of Benedict XVI
By AC Wimmer
CNA Newsroom, Dec 1, 2022 / 05:06 am

Pope Francis on Thursday praised the role of Pope Emeritus Benedict XVI and his theology for the Church.

Speaking at the 2022 Ratzinger Prize award ceremony at the Vatican, Pope Francis said: “We all feel his spiritual presence and his accompaniment in prayer for the whole Church.”

”But this occasion is important to reaffirm that the contribution of his theological work and, more generally, of his thought continues to be fruitful and effective.”

The Ratzinger Prize was launched in 2011 to recognize scholars whose work demonstrates a meaningful contribution to theology in the spirit of Cardinal Joseph Ratzinger, the Bavarian theologian who became Pope Benedict XVI.

This year, the prestigious award was given to Jesuit Father Michel Fédou and Professor Joseph H.H. Weiler.
 ::snipping3::
https://press.vatican.va/content/salastampa/en/bollettino/pubblico/2022/12/01/221201e.html
Audience with the “Joseph Ratzinger – Benedict XVI Vatican Foundation” for the conferral of the Ratzinger Prize 2022, 01.12.2022


Title: Re: Pope Benedict RESIGNING
Post by: grace-land on December 12, 2022, 12:55:57 PM
https://www.vaticannews.va/en/pope/news/2022-12/twitter-pontifex-10th-anniversary.html

Tenth anniversary of @Pontifex's first tweet
12 December 2022, 17:23

It was 12 December 2012, when Pope Benedict XVI sent his first 'tweet' and imparted his first blessing via social media. Today the account is one of the most followed in the world and has 53 million followers.
Vatican News

Using the handle @Pontifex, Pope Benedict XVI tweeted "Dear friends, I am pleased to get in touch with you through Twitter. Thank you for your generous response. I bless all of you from my heart".

It was 11.30 a.m. on 12 December 2012, ten years ago, that the first papal blessing was imparted via social media. Today the @Pontifex account, opened on 3 December of the same year, is among the most followed Twitter accounts worldwide.
 ::snipping3::


Title: Re: Pope Benedict RESIGNING
Post by: grace-land on December 28, 2022, 05:15:02 PM
Announcement:  "At the end of the General Audience, Pope Francis asks for “special prayers” for Benedict XVI “who is very ill.”

Video, with English commentary, at the link...with the announcement at the 51:00 time mark...

https://www.vaticannews.va/en/pope/news/2022-12/pope-francis-general-audience-christmas-francis-de-sales.html
Pope at Audience: 'Lovingly accept everything God sends us'
28 December 2022, 09:18

Pope Francis reflects on the birth of Christ at the weekly General Audience, and encourages us to welcome everything that God sends us, since He loves us and desires what is best for us.
By Devin Watkins

As the Church celebrates the Octave—eight days—of Christmas, Pope Francis focused his catechesis at the Wednesday General Audience on the mystery of Christ’s birth.

He drew inspiration from St. Francis de Sales on the 400th anniversary of the death of the Doctor of the Church.

The Pope also announced that he is publishing an Apostolic Letter on Wednesday dedicated to the French-born Saint and entitled Totum amoris est ("Everything Pertains to Love”).
  ::snipping3::
https://www.vatican.va/content/francesco/en/audiences/2022.index.html
Audiences 2022
General Audience of 28 December 2022 - Catechesis. Christmas with Saint Francis de Sales



Title: Re: Pope Benedict RESIGNING
Post by: grace-land on December 28, 2022, 05:19:36 PM
Announcement:  "At the end of the General Audience, Pope Francis asks for “special prayers” for Benedict XVI “who is very ill.”

https://www.vaticannews.va/en/pope/news/2022-12/pope-francis-benedict-xvi-prayers.html
Pope Francis asks for prayers for Benedict XVI
28 December 2022, 12:15

At the end of the General Audience, Pope Francis asks for “special prayers” for Benedict XVI “who is very ill.” The Holy See Press Office director confirms there has been an aggravation in his health condition but says the situation remains stable.
By Linda Bordoni

Concluding the General Audience on Wednesday, Pope Francis invited the faithful to say a "special prayer" for his 95-year-old predecessor, Pope Emeritus Benedict XVI.

“I would like to ask you all for a special prayer for Pope Emeritus Benedict, who in silence is supporting the Church. Remember him - he is very ill - asking the Lord to console him, and sustain him in this witness of love for the Church, until the end.”

Advanced age

Answering questions put to him by journalists, the Director of the Holy See Press Office, Matteo Bruni, confirmed, "In the last few hours there has been an aggravation of his health due to advancing age.”

He added that the situation “at the moment remains under control,” and that the Pope Emeritus is constantly monitored by doctors.

Mr. Bruni also said that after the General Audience in the Paul VI Hall, Pope Francis went to the Mater Ecclesiae monastery in the Vatican where Benedict XVI resides.
 ::snipping3::


Title: Re: Pope Benedict RESIGNING
Post by: grace-land on December 28, 2022, 05:27:42 PM
https://www.ncregister.com/blog/benedict-xvi-s-health-deteriorates

Benedict XVI’s Health Deteriorates
The Vatican said that after the audience, Francis visited Benedict at his Mater Ecclesiae Monastery residence in the Vatican.
Edward Pentin  December 28, 2022

VATICAN CITY —Pope Emeritus Benedict XVI is suffering from aggravated kidney failure and had a recent modification to his pacemaker, an informed Vatican source has told the Register.

The source said Benedict XVI has been experiencing “kidney failure which has worsened in the last few hours.” The source added that the 95-year-old Pope Emeritus had a modification to his “pacemaker about a month and a half ago to regularize his heartbeats” but stressed that it was unrelated to his kidney failure.

The Vatican has yet to confirm his exact condition but confirmed on Wednesday that Benedict had experienced a sudden decline in his health, is currently stable and under medical care.
 ::snipping3::


Title: Re: Pope Benedict RESIGNING
Post by: grace-land on December 28, 2022, 05:37:48 PM
https://www.catholicnewsagency.com/news/253169/vatican-shares-prayer-for-benedict-xvi-s-health

Vatican shares prayer for Benedict XVI’s health
By Hannah Brockhaus
Vatican City, Dec 28, 2022 / 06:30 am

The Vatican’s news service posted a prayer for the health of Benedict XVI on Wednesday, after Pope Francis asked Catholics to pray for the “very ill” pope emeritus.

At the end of his weekly public audience on Dec. 28, Pope Francis said: “I ask to all of you a special prayer for the pope emeritus Benedict, who, in silence, is sustaining the Church.”

“Remember him — he is very ill — asking the Lord to console him and to sustain him in this testimony of love for the Church until the end.”
 ::snipping3::
Below is the text of the prayer shared by Vatican News on Facebook:

A prayer for the health of Pope Emeritus Benedict XVI

Let us pray.

Almighty and Eternal God,

You are the everlasting health of

those who believe in You.

Hear our prayers for your sick servant Benedict

for whom we implore the aid of Your tender mercy,

Through Christ our Lord. Amen.
 ::snipping3::

https://www.facebook.com/vaticannews/photos/a.496953866982889/6157130077631878/


Title: Re: Pope Benedict RESIGNING
Post by: grace-land on December 28, 2022, 05:41:04 PM
https://www.catholicnewsagency.com/news/253170/the-most-frequently-asked-questions-about-pope-benedict-xvi

The most frequently asked questions about Pope Benedict XVI
By CNA Staff
CNA Newsroom, Dec 28, 2022 / 11:00 am

On Dec. 28 the press office of the Holy See announced that Pope Emeritus Benedict XVI’s condition had taken a turn for the worse and that he was receiving medical care at his residence at the Mater Ecclesiae Monastery in the Vatican.

The news has sparked an outpouring of prayer for the 95-year-old retired pope and renewed interest among Catholics and others around the world in the details of his life and pontificate. Here are answers to some of the most frequently asked questions about Benedict XVI:

How many years was Benedict pope?

He was pope for eight years, from April 19, 2005, to Feb. 11, 2013.
 ::snipping3::


Title: Re: Pope Benedict RESIGNING
Post by: grace-land on December 29, 2022, 01:24:28 PM
Update:  Pope Emeritus Benedict XVI’s condition

https://www.vaticannews.va/en/pope/news/2022-12/pope-francis-prayers-benedict-xvi-ill.html
Pope renews invitation to pray for Benedict XVI in these difficult hours
29 December 2022, 14:21

A statement released by the Director of the Holy See Press Office says the Pope Emeritus is in a stable condition.
By Vatican News

Responding to questions put to him by reporters, the Director of the Holy See Press Office, Matteo Bruni, said "The Pope Emeritus managed to rest well last night, he is absolutely lucid and alert and today, although his condition remains serious, the situation at the moment is stable.“

Concern for Benedict XVI‘s health was raised on Wednesday when Pope Francis concluded the General Audience with an invitation to the faithful to pray for his 95-year-old predecessor who, he said, is very ill.

Bruni also said Pope Francis "renews his invitation to pray for him [Benedict XVI] and to accompany him in these difficult hours."
 ::snipping3::
https://www.catholicnewsagency.com/news/253176/vatican-benedict-xvi-s-condition-serious-but-stable
Vatican: Benedict XVI’s condition serious but stable
By Hannah Brockhaus
Vatican City, Dec 29, 2022 / 06:35 am

https://www.catholicnewsagency.com/news/253178/rome-diocese-to-offer-mass-for-benedict-xvi
Rome Diocese to offer Mass for Benedict XVI
By Hannah Brockhaus
Rome, Italy, Dec 29, 2022 / 07:30 am


Title: Re: Pope Benedict RESIGNING
Post by: grace-land on December 29, 2022, 01:29:54 PM
https://www.vaticannews.va/en/vatican-city/news/2022-12/pope-emeritus-benedict-xvi-prayers-ill-health-francis.html

Outpouring of prayers for health of Pope Emeritus Benedict XVI
29 December 2022, 12:30

People around the globe are praying for Benedict XVI at the invitation of Pope Francis, as the Pope Emeritus’ health remains stable but under observation by his doctors.
By Devin Watkins
 ::snipping3::
Silent prayer for a silent witness

Christians, as well as non-Christians, have responded in droves to Pope Francis’ request for prayers for the German-born Pope Emeritus.

Cardinal Blase Cupich, Archbishop of Chicago, tweeted his spiritual support and urged everyone to ask “for the Lord’s grace to help sustain Pope Benedict as he has sustained the Church through his silent witness.”

Cardinal Timothy Dolan, Archbishop of New York, issued a similar statement and invitation, expressing “great faith in God’s goodness.”

The Archbishop of Westminster, Cardinal Vincent Nichols, added his voice, praying that God might “sustain and console him at this time.”

Ukrainian closeness

Catholics in Ukraine also joined in the spiritual chorus for the Pope Emeritus, after Major Archbishop Sviatoslav Shevchuk urged the Synod and all the faithful of the Ukrainian Greek Catholic Church to pray.

“The whole Ukrainian Greek Catholic Church wants to unite in prayer around this great witness of our times, thanking him for his silent witness as Pope Emeritus and at the same time remembering and seeking to put into practice his work for the unity of the Church, which was an extraordinary feature of his pontificate.”

Major Archbishop Shevchuk met recently with Benedict at his residence in the Vatican’s Mater Ecclesiae Monastery on 10 November. He later recounted that the Pope Emeritus was “incredibly lucid, informed and solicitous about the situation in Ukraine, and had assured his prayers for the Ukrainian people.”

Intercession for a man of prayer

The Chief Rabbi of the Jewish Community of Rome, Riccardo Di Segni, also tweeted his prayerful support for Benedict.

"Concerned about the news about the health of Pope Emeritus Benedict, I join in prayers that he may overcome the ordeal and recover soon," he said.

The president of the Italian Bishops’ Conference, Cardinal Matteo Zuppi, urged Italians to “gather around the Pope Emeritus” in prayer at this trying time, recalling Benedict’s own description of his mission following his resignation from the papacy.

“His remaining ‘in a new way with the Crucified Lord,’ continuing to ‘accompany the path of the Church with prayer and reflection’ constitutes a strong message for the ecclesial community and the whole society.”
 ::snipping3::


Title: Re: Pope Benedict RESIGNING
Post by: grace-land on December 29, 2022, 01:33:58 PM
http://magister.blogautore.espresso.repubblica.it/2022/12/28/benedict-xvi-my-life-my-priorities/

di Sandro Magister
28 dic Benedict XVI: My Life, My Priorities

(s.m.) In these hours of concern for the earthly life of pope emeritus Benedict, here are two of his self-penned and autobiographical writings that are decisive for understanding him to the core.

The first is taken from the letter he addressed to the bishops of the Catholic Church on March 10 2009, and says what the “priorities” of his pontificate have been.

The second is taken from the encyclical letter “Spe Salvi” of November 30 2007, written entirely in his own hand, and reveals the hope that has always enlivened him even in the most difficult hours for the Church, he who had found himself called to govern it instead of dedicating himself to a life of study, just as had happened for the theologian and bishop Augustine, the doctor of the Church he most loved.
 ::snipping3::


Title: Re: Pope Benedict RESIGNING
Post by: grace-land on December 30, 2022, 09:34:13 AM
Update:  Pope Emeritus Benedict XVI’s condition

https://www.vaticannews.va/en/pope/news/2022-12/pope-emeritus-rested-well-overnight-health-situation-stable.html
Pope Emeritus rested well overnight, health situation stable
30 December 2022, 15:20

The Director of the Holy See Press Office on Friday says Pope Emeritus Benedict XVI's health condition remains stable.
By Vatican News

In a response to questions from journalists, the Director of the Holy See Press Office, Matteo Bruni, on Friday confirmed that Pope Emeritus Benedict XVI's health condition remains stable at this time. He added that yesterday evening Benedict XVI was able to have a good rest, and earlier in the afternoon he participated in the celebration of Mass in his room.

In related news, at 5:30 pm Rome time on today, Mass will be celebrated at the Basilica of St. John Lateran, remembering in prayer Pope Emeritus Benedict XVI and his health. Cardinal Angelo De Donatis, Vicar of the Diocese of Rome, will preside over the celebration.
 ::snipping3::
https://www.ncregister.com/blog/benedict-xvi-s-health-vatican-provides-update
Benedict XVI’s Health: Vatican Provides Update
Edward Pentin  December 29, 2022

Please see below for regular updates on the health of the Pope Emeritus.

Friday Dec. 30:

At 3pm Rome time, the Vatican issued the following statement:

“Responding to reporters’ questions, Holy See Press Office director Matteo Bruni said the following:

‘Last night the Pope Emeritus was able to rest well. He also participated in the celebration of Holy Mass in his room yesterday afternoon. At present his condition is stable.’”

Italian and German media have reported that in compliance with Benedict XVI's wishes, he is not expected to be taken to hospital as all medical equipment capable of treating him is located in his residence in the Vatican Gardens. He is being treated by his personal physician, Dr. Patrizio Polisca, an expert Italian cardiologist who for a time was the doctor of Pope Francis, and a nurse.
 ::snipping3::


Title: Re: Pope Benedict RESIGNING
Post by: grace-land on December 30, 2022, 05:19:40 PM
Video, with highlights, at the link...

https://www.vaticannews.va/en/vatican-city/news/2022-12/cardinal-de-donatis-presides-over-special-mass-forbenedict-xvi.html
Cardinal De Donatis presides over special Mass for Benedict XVI
30 December 2022, 21:12

In his homily pronounced on Friday evening in St John's Basilica in the Lateran, the Cardinal Vicar General for the Diocese of Rome expresses the prayerful “affection” and “gratitude” of the entire Church of Rome to the Pope Emeritus, whose health conditions remain stable.
By Lisa Zengarini

As cardinals, bishops, bishops’ conferences and faithful around the world continue to offer prayers for Pope Emeritus Benedict XVI, the Cardinal Vicar General for the Diocese of Rome, Angelo De Donatis, on Friday presided over a special evening Mass for him in St John's Basilica in the Lateran.

Although critical, the director of the Vatican Press Office, Matteo Bruni, has confirmed that Benedict XVI’s health conditions remain stable.

Affection and gratitude

Cardinal De Donatis introduced his homily by expressing the prayerful “affection” and “gratitude” of the entire Church of Rome to the Pope Emeritus, who - he noted - loved his Diocese “so much and served (it) with unselfish love.”

Reflecting on today’s Gospel of the Solemnity of the Holy Family, the Archpriest St John's Basilica highlighted the likeness between the “trusting abandonment” to God of Benedict XVI whose baptismal name is Joseph, to that of St. Joseph when fleeing Herod with Mary and Baby Jesus.
 ::snipping3::

Full video, with English commentary, at the link...
https://www.catholicnewsagency.com/news/253189/faithful-pray-for-benedict-xvi-at-special-mass-in-rome
‘Trust in Providence’: Faithful pray for Benedict XVI at special Mass in Rome
By AC Wimmer
CNA Newsroom, Dec 30, 2022 / 11:30 am
 


Title: Re: Pope Benedict RESIGNING
Post by: grace-land on December 31, 2022, 06:40:13 AM
RIP POPE EMERITUS, BENEDICT XVI   ::MonkeyAngel:: ::MonkeyTears::

https://twitter.com/EdwardPentin?ref_src=twsrc%5Egoogle%7Ctwcamp%5Eserp%7Ctwgr%5Eauthor

Edward Pentin@EdwardPentin · 3h

Vatican spokesman Matteo Bruni: “With sorrow I inform you that the Pope Emeritus, Benedict XVI, passed away today at 9:34 in the Mater Ecclesiae Monastery in the Vatican.  Further information will be provided as soon as possible.”
(https://pbs.twimg.com/media/FlTBxGBWIAITFxY?format=jpg&name=small)


Title: Re: Pope Benedict RESIGNING
Post by: grace-land on December 31, 2022, 07:01:38 AM
https://www.catholicnewsagency.com/news/253167/breaking-pope-emeritus-benedict-xvi-dies-at-age-95

BREAKING: Pope Emeritus Benedict XVI dies at age 95
By Matthew Bunson, AC Wimmer
CNA Newsroom, Dec 31, 2022 / 02:44 am

Pope Emeritus Benedict XVI, a leading theologian of the 20th century and the first pope to resign from office in nearly 600 years, has died at the age of 95, the Vatican announced.

His death was announced in Rome on Dec. 31. His funeral Mass will be held on Jan. 5, 2023, in St. Peter’s Square, the Vatican said.

The Vatican press office director, Matteo Bruni, said Dec. 31: “With sorrow I inform you that the Pope Emeritus, Benedict XVI, passed away today at 9:34 in the Mater Ecclesiae Monastery in the Vatican.”

Benedict XVI’s body will lie in state in St. Peter’s Basilica beginning on Jan. 2, 2023.

Bruni told journalists in a news briefing Dec. 31 that Benedict received the sacrament of anointing of the sick on Dec. 28.

The solemn funeral Mass will be on Jan. 5, 2023, at 9:30 a.m. in St. Peter’s Square, with Pope Francis presiding. 

“In accordance with the wish of the pope emeritus, the funeral will be carried out under the sign of simplicity,” Bruni said.

You can watch EWTN’s live coverage of Benedict’s death from Rome here.

As of 2 p.m. in Rome, police have emptied St. Peter’s Square for security checks. At 5 p.m. Pope Francis will celebrate First Vespers for the vigil of the Solemnity of Mary, Mother of God, inside the Vatican basilica.
 ::snipping3::


Title: Re: Pope Benedict RESIGNING
Post by: grace-land on December 31, 2022, 07:34:16 AM
https://www.catholicnewsagency.com/news/253168/benedict-xvi-dead-at-95-the-humble-worker-and-his-legacy-of-hope-to-the-catholic-church

Benedict XVI dead at 95: The ‘humble worker’ and his legacy of hope to the Catholic Church
By Luke Coppen, AC Wimmer, Matthew Bunson
CNA Newsroom, Dec 31, 2022 / 02:59 am

Pope Emeritus Benedict XVI has died at the age of 95, bringing to a close the momentous life of a Churchman who proclaimed the “eternal joy” of Jesus Christ and called himself a “humble worker” in the vineyard of the Lord.

His death was announced in Rome on Dec. 31.

Cardinal Joseph Aloisius Ratzinger was elected pope on April 19, 2005, and took the name Benedict XVI. Eight years later, on Feb. 11, 2013, the 85-year-old shocked the world with the announcement — made in Latin — that he was resigning from the papacy. It was the first resignation of a pope in nearly 600 years. He cited his advanced age and lack of strength as unsuitable for the exercise of his office.

However, the enormous legacy of his theologically profound contributions to the Church and the world will continue to be the source of reflection and study.
 ::snipping3::


Title: Re: Pope Benedict RESIGNING
Post by: grace-land on December 31, 2022, 07:56:17 AM
https://www.vaticannews.va/en/vatican-city/news/2022-12/pope-francis-descriptions-emeritus-benedict-xvi.html

What Pope Francis has said regarding Benedict XVI
31 December 2022, 14:44
(https://www.vaticannews.va/content/dam/vaticannews/multimedia/2020/11/28/281120_10.jpg/_jcr_content/renditions/cq5dam.thumbnail.cropped.750.422.jpeg)

As Pope Francis prepares to preside over the funeral of the late Pope Emeritus Benedict XVI on Thursday, 5 January, several remarks from early in his pontificate offer a portrait of his German-born predecessor.
By Vatican News

No sooner had Bergoglio been elected Pope when some of his first words right at the beginning of his pontificate were addressed to Benedict XVI. While greeting the crowd from the central loggia of the Vatican Basilica, Pope Francis said:

“First of all, I would like to offer a prayer for our Bishop Emeritus, Benedict XVI. Let us pray together for him, that the Lord may bless him and that Our Lady may keep him.”

‘A great Pope’

“Benedict XVI: a great Pope”: Pope Francis thus defined Benedict XVI on 27 October 2014 during the inauguration of a bust in honour of the Pope Emeritus at the Papal Academy of Sciences.

During his speech, Pope Francis remembered his predecessor as:

“Great in strength and intellectual insight, great in his significant contribution to theology, great in his love for the Church and for human beings, great in his virtue and his religiosity.”
 ::snipping3::


Title: Re: Pope Benedict RESIGNING
Post by: grace-land on December 31, 2022, 11:47:31 AM
Full video of Vespers and Te Deum, with English commentary, at the link...

https://www.vaticannews.va/en/pope/news/2022-12/pope-pays-tribute-benedict-xvi-s-witness-faith-prayer-kindness.html
Pope pays tribute to Benedict XVI's witness of faith, prayer, kindness
31 December 2022, 17:40

Pope Francis remembers "dear Pope Emeritus Benedict XVI who left us this morning," recalling him as such a noble and kind man of faith, while expressing gratitude to God for his gift to the Church. The Pope's words came in his homily at the end of the year celebration of Vespers and the Te Deum.
By Thaddeus Jones

Pope Francis led the traditional end of the year celebration of Vespers followed by the recitation of the Te Deum, the Church’s solemn chant of Thanksgiving for the past year. The celebration on New Year's Eve took place in Saint Peter's Basilica.

In his homily, the Pope remembered Pope Emeritus Benedict XVI who died earlier in the morning, recalling his great kindness, witness of faith and prayer.

“And speaking of kindness, at this moment, my thought naturally goes to dear Pope emeritus Benedict XVI who left us this morning. We are moved as we recall him as such a noble person, so kind. And we feel such gratitude in our hearts: gratitude to God for having given him to the Church and to the world; gratitude to him for all the good he accomplished, and above all, for his witness of faith and prayer, especially in these last years of his recollected life. Only God knows the value and the power of his intercession, of the sacrifices he offered for the good of the Church.”

Kindness marked the key word in the Pope's homily during this celebration of Evening Prayer of the Solemnity of Mary Most Holy, Mother of God.

The Pope recalled Mary's "yes" to God and that His will be fulfilled in her "began the slow journey of the gestation of a humanity free from sin and filled with grace and truth, filled with love and faithfulness."  The Pope explained how God chose this way to enter into the world and history.

“A beautiful, good and true humanity, made in the image and likeness of God, but at the same time, woven with our flesh offered by Mary…never without her…always with her consent…in freedom, gratuitously, respectfully, in love.”
 ::snipping3::
https://www.catholicnewsagency.com/news/253198/pope-francis-gives-thanks-to-god-for-benedict-xvis-sacrifices-for-the-church
Pope Francis gives thanks to God for Benedict XVI’s sacrifices for the Church
By Hannah Brockhaus, Courtney Mares
Rome Newsroom, Dec 31, 2022 / 10:33 am

https://www.vatican.va/content/francesco/en/homilies/2022.index.html
Homilies 2022
Celebration of Vespers and Te Deum in Thanksgiving for the past year (31 December 2022)



Title: Re: Pope Benedict RESIGNING
Post by: grace-land on December 31, 2022, 11:59:39 AM
https://www.catholicnewsagency.com/news/253199/benedict-xvi-s-final-resting-place-decided-he-will-be-buried-in-vatican-crypt

Benedict XVI’s final resting place decided: He will be buried in Vatican crypt
By Hannah Brockhaus
Vatican City, Dec 31, 2022 / 10:00 am

Benedict XVI will be buried in the crypt under St. Peter’s Basilica, the Vatican said Saturday afternoon.

Benedict’s death, at the age of 95, was announced in Rome on Dec. 31. His body will lie in state in St. Peter’s Basilica from the morning of Monday, Jan. 2, 2023, until his funeral Mass in St. Peter’s Square on Jan. 5, 2023.

The tombs in the Vatican crypt are close to the remains of the Catholic Church’s first pope, St. Peter the Apostle.

Benedict XVI’s remains will stay at Mater Ecclesiae Monastery until Jan. 2, 2022, the Vatican said. No official visits or public prayers are planned.

His body will lie in state from 9 a.m. to 7 p.m. on Jan. 2, 2023, and from 7 a.m to 7 p.m. on Jan. 3 and 4, 2023, in St. Peter’s Basilica, where members of the public may pay their final respects.

The funeral Mass on Jan. 5, 2023, will take place at 9:30 a.m. in St. Peter’s Square. Attendance is free and requires no reservation.
 ::snipping3::


Title: Re: Pope Benedict RESIGNING
Post by: grace-land on December 31, 2022, 12:04:46 PM
https://www.catholicnewsagency.com/news/253197/live-updates-pope-emeritus-benedict-xvi-dies-at-age-95

LIVE UPDATES: Pope Emeritus Benedict XVI dies at age 95
By Katie Yoder, Lauretta Brown, CNA Staff
Washington, D.C. Newsroom, Dec 31, 2022 / 05:25 am

Pope Emeritus Benedict XVI, a leading theologian of the 20th century and the first pope to resign from office in nearly 600 years, has died at the age of 95.

Follow along here for live updates, all times are in U.S. Eastern Standard Time:
 ::snipping3::


Title: Re: Pope Benedict RESIGNING
Post by: grace-land on December 31, 2022, 03:39:33 PM
https://www.vaticannews.va/en/vatican-city/news/2022-12/the-spiritual-testament-of-pope-emeritus-benedict-xvi.html

The Spiritual Testament of Pope Emeritus Benedict XVI
31 December 2022, 19:58

The Holy See releases the Spiritual Testament of Pope Emeritus Benedict XVI, dated 29 August 2006.

My spiritual testament

When, at this late hour of my life, I look back on the decades I have wandered through, I see first of all how much reason I have to give thanks. Above all, I thank God Himself, the giver of all good gifts, who has given me life and guided me through all kinds of confusion; who has always picked me up when I began to slip, who has always given me anew the light of his countenance. In retrospect, I see and understand that even the dark and arduous stretches of this path were for my salvation and that He guided me well in those very stretches.

I thank my parents, who gave me life in difficult times and prepared a wonderful home for me with their love, which shines through all my days as a bright light until today. My father's clear-sighted faith taught us brothers and sisters to believe and stood firm as a guide in the midst of all my scientific knowledge; my mother's heartfelt piety and great kindness remain a legacy for which I cannot thank her enough. My sister has served me selflessly and full of kind concern for decades; my brother has always paved the way for me with the clear-sightedness of his judgements, with his powerful determination, and with the cheerfulness of his heart; without this ever-new going ahead and going along, I would not have been able to find the right path.
 ::snipping3::

https://www.vaticannews.va/en/vatican-city/news/2022-12/pope-emeritus-benedict-xvi-dies-aged-95.html
Farewell to Benedict XVI: ‘Humble worker in the vineyard of the Lord'
31 December 2022, 10:35
Updated at 16.42


Title: Re: Pope Benedict RESIGNING
Post by: grace-land on January 01, 2023, 10:10:43 AM
Full video, with English commentary, at the link...

https://www.vaticannews.va/en/pope/news/2023-01/as-new-year-begins-pope-francis-says-mary-gives-us-hope.html
As New Year begins, Pope Francis says, ‘Mary gives us hope’
01 January 2023, 10:15

In his homily during the Mass for the Solemnity of Mary, the Mother of God, Pope Francis invites the faithful to rediscover “the enthusiasm of going” and “the wonder of seeing,” as the shepherds did, “the secret that can make this world truly new.”
By Christopher Wells

Mary’s Motherhood is a “fundamental datum of faith,” but also “ “a marvelous fact”: “God has a Mother,” Pope Francis explained, “and is thus bound forever to our humanity, to the point that our humanity is His humanity.”

In his homily for the Solemnity of Mary, Mother of God, the Holy Father noted that this truth has “mostly entered the hearts and minds of the holy People of God” through the invocation in the dearly loved prayer, the Hail Mary. “To this invocation, the Mother of God always responds,” the Pope said. “She hears our petitions; holding her Son in her arms, she blesses us and brings us the tender love of God made flesh.”

“In a word, Mary gives us hope.”

The Pope said, "The year, which opens with the celebration of God's Mother and our own, tells us that the key to hope is Mary, and that the antiphon of hope is the invocation, 'Holy Mother of God!'"

And, he added, "Today we entrust to our Blessed Mother our beloved Pope Emeritus Benedict XVI so that she may accompany him in his passage from this world to God."
 ::snipping3::
https://www.catholicnewsagency.com/news/253206/pope-francis-entrusts-the-late-benedict-xvi-to-the-blessed-virgin-mary
Pope Francis entrusts the late Benedict XVI to the Blessed Virgin Mary
By Courtney Mares
Vatican City, Jan 1, 2023 / 03:17 am

https://www.vatican.va/content/francesco/en/homilies/2023.index.html
Homilies 2023
Holy Mass on the Solemnity of Mary, Mother of God (1st January 2023)



Title: Re: Pope Benedict RESIGNING
Post by: grace-land on January 01, 2023, 10:31:50 AM
Video, with English commentary, at the link...

https://www.vaticannews.va/en/pope/news/2023-01/pope-at-angelus-we-thank-god-for-the-gift-of-benedict-xvi.html
Pope at Angelus: We thank God for the gift of Benedict XVI
01 January 2023, 12:25

At the midday Angelus following the morning Mass on New Year's Day, Pope Francis calls on us to invoke the Blessed Mother's intercession for Pope Emeritus Benedict XVI, who died Saturday morning.
By Vatican News staff writer

Speaking to the crowds gathered in Saint Peter's Square on New Year's Day, Pope Francis recalled that the start of the new year is entrusted to Mary Most Holy, whom we celebrated today as Mother of God. He invited everyone to invoke her intercession, especially for Pope Emeritus Benedict XVI, who died Saturday morning.
“Let us all join together, with one heart and one soul, in thanking God for the gift of this faithful servant of the Gospel and of the Church.”
 ::snipping3::
https://www.catholicnewsagency.com/news/253210/pope-francis-let-mary-teach-you-what-to-do-in-the-new-year
Pope Francis: Let Mary teach you what to do in the New Year
By Hannah Brockhaus
Rome Newsroom, Jan 1, 2023 / 08:31 am

https://www.vatican.va/content/francesco/en/angelus/2023.index.html
Angelus - Regina Cæli 2023
Angelus, 1st January 2023, Solemnity of Mary, the Holy Mother of God



Title: Re: Pope Benedict RESIGNING
Post by: grace-land on January 01, 2023, 10:52:53 AM
 ::MonkeyAngel::
https://www.vaticannews.va/en/pope/news/2023-01/pope-may-we-all-unite-gratitude-for-faithful-servant-of-gospel.html
Pope: May we all unite in gratitude for this faithful servant of Gospel
01 January 2023, 15:38
(https://www.vaticannews.va/content/dam/vaticannews/agenzie/images/srv/2023/01/01/2023-01-01-salma-ss-benedetto-xvi/1672574567643.JPG/_jcr_content/renditions/cq5dam.thumbnail.cropped.500.281.jpeg)
https://www.vaticannews.va/en/pope.html
The body of the Pope Emeritus in the Mater Ecclesiae chapel

At the Angelus on Sunday, Pope Francis again recalled, as he did at yesterday evening's Te Deum and this morning's Mass, his late predecessor, Benedict XVI. On Saturday, shortly after Benedict's death, the Pope went to the Mater Ecclesiae Monastery to pray over his body, which now rests in the Monastery chapel. His body will be transferred to St. Peter's Basilica tomorrow morning allowing for veneration by the faithful.
By Salvatore Cernuzio and Tiziana Campisi

"The beginning of the new year is entrusted to Mary Most Holy, whom we celebrate today as Mother of God. At this time, let us invoke her intercession, especially for Pope Emeritus Benedict XVI, who left this world yesterday morning. Let us all join together, with one heart and one soul, in thanking God for the gift of this faithful servant of the Gospel and of the Church."

Pope Francis offered these words of affection and sorrow for the death of his predecessor, Benedict XVI, but also his gratitude for one whom, as in yesterday evening's Te Deum, he described as "a gift for the Church and the world". Benedict, "the good grandfather," the "father" and "brother", as he had called him during these years of his pontificate, died yesterday morning at the age of 95.

The Vatican's Press Office released images of the body of the Pope emeritus lying in repose in the chapel of the Mater Ecclesiae Monastery, located in the Vatican Gardens a few steps away from the Grotto of Our Lady of Lourdes, which Benedict XVI had chosen as his home after stepping down from the Petrine ministry in 2013.

Pope Francis' visit yesterday to Mater Ecclesiae Monastery

On Saturday morning, Pope Francis went to the Monastery a few minutes after 9.34 am, the hour of Benedict XVI's death, the director of the Holy See Press Office, Matteo Bruni, confirmed today. He explained that, immediately after being informed by the special secretary, Archbishop Georg Gänswein, the Pope went to the Mater Ecclesiae Monastery by car at around 10 am. He had also made a visit there last Wednesday, 28 December, immediately after speaking of the Pope Emeritus' worsening health situation, asking for "a special prayer" for him.
 ::snipping3::
https://www.catholicnewsagency.com/news/253207/vatican-releases-photos-of-benedict-xvis-body
Vatican shares first photos of Benedict XVI after death
By Hannah Brockhaus
Rome Newsroom, Jan 1, 2023 / 05:28 am


Title: Re: Pope Benedict RESIGNING
Post by: grace-land on January 01, 2023, 04:47:14 PM
https://www.catholicnewsagency.com/news/253215/here-are-the-last-words-spoken-by-pope-emeritus-benedict-xvi

Here are the last words spoken by Pope Emeritus Benedict XVI
By Zelda Caldwell, Courtney Mares
Washington, D.C. Newsroom, Jan 1, 2023 / 12:12 pm

The last words of Pope Emeritus Benedict XVI as he lay on his deathbed were “Lord, I love you!” according to the late pope’s longtime personal secretary Archbishop Georg Gänswein, Vatican News reported.

At about 3 a.m. on Dec. 31, a few hours before he died, Benedict was alone with a nurse who did not speak German, Vatican News reported. At that time Gänswein and others who were taking turns staying with the pope emeritus had left the room for a moment.

Gänswein recounted that Benedict XVI “in a soft but clearly distinguishable voice said in Italian, ‘Lord, I love you!’”

Gänswein said: “I was not there at the time, but the nurse told me shortly afterwards. Those were his last comprehensible words because after that he was no longer able to express himself."

The pope emeritus’ death was announced in Rome on Dec. 31. His solemn funeral Mass will be on Thursday, Jan. 5, at 9:30 a.m. Rome time in St. Peter’s Square, with Pope Francis presiding. Benedict XVI will be buried in the Vatican crypt following the funeral.

“In accordance with the wish of the pope emeritus, the funeral will be carried out under the sign of simplicity,” the Vatican press office director, Matteo Bruni, said. Bruni told journalists in a news briefing Dec. 31 that Benedict received the sacrament of anointing of the sick on Dec. 28.
 ::snipping3::

Video, and English transcript of the interview, at the link...
https://www.catholicnewsagency.com/news/253203/pope-benedict-xvi-personal-secretary-georg-ganswein-ewtn-interview
WATCH: Benedict's longtime secretary, Archbishop Georg Gänswein, reflects on the late pope's life, legacy
By CNA Staff
Rome Newsroom, Jan 1, 2023 / 02:30 am


Title: Re: Pope Benedict RESIGNING
Post by: grace-land on January 02, 2023, 01:19:05 PM
Video at the link...

https://www.vaticannews.va/en/vatican-city/news/2023-01/saying-goodbye-to-benedict-faithful-flock-to-st-peter-s.html
Bidding farewell to Benedict XVI: Thousands pay their respects in St Peter’s
02 January 2023, 10:19
(https://www.vaticannews.va/content/dam/vaticannews/agenzie/images/ansa/2023/01/02/10/1672651677933.jpg/_jcr_content/renditions/cq5dam.thumbnail.cropped.500.281.jpeg)
https://www.vaticannews.va/en/vatican-city.html

Ahead of his funeral on Thursday, the body of Pope Emeritus Benedict XVI lies in state in St Peter's Basilica, where the faithful can pay their final respects and to offer their prayers for the repose of the soul of the late Joseph Ratzinger.
By Christopher Wells

The mortal remains of Pope Emeritus Benedict XVI have been transferred to the Basilica of Saint Peter, where they will lay in state for three days to offer the faithful an opportunity for prayer and to pay their final respects to the former Supreme Pontiff.

The Pope Emeritus’ body – resting in front of the Altar of the Confession – is vested in traditional red liturgical garments with a miter, but without the pallium (the latter a symbol of jurisdiction which is normally not used for a retired prelate). A simple Rosary is held in his interlaced fingers.

Long, prayerful lines

On Monday morning, the Pope Emeritus’ remains were translated from the Monastery to the Basilica in a private ceremony.

A long line of the faithful and other well-wishers had already formed early Monday morning before the viewing officially began at 9 am Rome time.

On Monday morning, the Pope Emeritus’ remains were translated from the Monastery’s chapel to the Basilica in a private ceremony, presided over by Cardinal Mauro Gambetti, who holds the title of Archpriest of St Peter’s. The brief ceremony lasted approximately half an hour.
 ::snipping3::

Video and photos at the link...

https://www.catholicnewsagency.com/news/253218/thousands-gather-to-pay-final-respects-to-body-of-benedict-xvi
VIDEO AND PHOTOS: Thousands gather to pay final respects to body of Benedict XVI
By Courtney Mares, Hannah Brockhaus
Vatican City, Jan 2, 2023 / 04:54 am
(https://www.catholicnewsagency.com/storage/image/dsc7050.jpg?w=670&h=447)



Title: Re: Pope Benedict RESIGNING
Post by: grace-land on January 02, 2023, 01:50:17 PM
https://www.vaticannews.va/en/church/news/2023-01/churches-remember-benedict-xvi-as-man-committed-to-ecumenism.html

Churches remember Benedict XVI as a man committed to ecumenism
02 January 2023, 13:49
(https://www.vaticannews.va/content/dam/vaticannews/agenzie/images/srv/2023/01/02/2023-01-02-la-salma-di-benedetto-xvi-in-basilica-per-l-omaggio-d/1672665094100.JPG/_jcr_content/renditions/cq5dam.thumbnail.cropped.750.422.jpeg)
People queuing in St. Peter's Square to their final respects to Pope Emeritus Benedict XVI  (VATICAN MEDIA Divisione Foto)

Christian Churches across the world express deep sorrow at the death of Pope Emeritus Benedict XVI and remember him as a fine theologian committed to ecumenical dialogue and a very humane person.
By Lisa Zengarini

As thousands of people begin to flock to  St. Peter’s Basilica in the Vatican to pay their final respects to Benedict XVI, tributes to the late Pope Emeritus continue to pour in from across the world, including other Christian Churches, Heads of state and government, and also from faith leaders of other religions.

Following the announcement of his passing away on 31 December, the acting general secretary of the World Council of Churches (WCC) Reverend Ioan Sauca, expressed the “deepest condolences” of all its member Churches, highlighting his significant contribution to ecumenical dialogue.

Noting that he was the first pope to have come from a country, Germany, with a roughly equal balance between Protestants and Catholics, and one that had been at the very centre of the 16th century Reformation, Rev. Sauca also remarked that Benedict XVI was the first Catholic Pontiff to have belonged to a committee of the WCC, as one of the Catholic members of its ‘Faith and Order Commission’.
 ::snipping3::

https://www.vaticannews.va/en/world/news/2023-01/world-leaders-mourning-death-of-benedict-xvi.html
World leaders mourning death of Benedict XVI
02 January 2023, 16:13

Political leaders across the world send their condolences for the passing of the Pope Emeritus, praising his devotion to the Church and commitment for world peace.
By Vatican News staff reporter


Title: Re: Pope Benedict RESIGNING
Post by: grace-land on January 02, 2023, 02:18:03 PM
https://www.catholicnewsagency.com/news/253219/benedict-xvi-s-funeral-only-2-countries-will-send-official-delegations

Benedict XVI’s funeral: Only 2 countries will send official delegations
By Kelsey Wicks
Rome Newsroom, Jan 2, 2023 / 06:30 am
(https://www.catholicnewsagency.com/storage/image/ris4915.jpg?w=220&h=165)
Archbishop Georg Gänswein, the longtime personal secretary of Benedict XVI, greets Italy's Prime Minister, Giorgia Meloni, on Jan. 2, 2023, at St. Peter's Basilica, where Benedict is lying in state. | Vatican Media

Just two official state delegations — from Italy and Germany — will attend the funeral of Pope Emeritus Benedict XVI, the Vatican’s press office has confirmed, answering one of the many novel protocol questions posed by the death of a pope emeritus.

The German-born Benedict, formerly Cardinal Joseph Ratzinger, lived in Italy for more than 40 years, beginning in 1981. The Holy See Press Office confirmed on Dec. 31 that the two countries were sending official representatives to the funeral, which will be on Thursday.

Both Italian President Sergio Mattarella and Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni paid their respects to the late pontiff Monday morning at St. Peter’s Basilica, where his body will lie in state through Jan. 4. While there, Meloni offered her condolences to Benedict’s longtime personal secretary, Archbishop Georg Gänswein.

According to the news magazine Der Spiegel, German President Frank-Walter Steinmeier will attend Benedict’s funeral on Thursday in an official capacity.

The protocols after the death of a reigning pope have in the past provided a well-known set of rituals, but the death of a pope emeritus presents a unique situation. Speculation about whether he would be buried in papal dress or that of a cardinal has been accompanied by other questions surrounding who will attend the funeral in an official capacity since Benedict XVI is no longer a head of state.

The answer appears to be a mixture of papal rites. Buried in the papal red, his body was adorned with many features reserved for a pope, but not all: the characteristic red shoes worn by Benedict as pope were replaced by black ones. In the case of official delegations, just two were invited, though any public figure can attend the event in a personal capacity.
 ::snipping3::


Title: Re: Pope Benedict RESIGNING
Post by: grace-land on January 02, 2023, 02:34:53 PM
https://www.catholicnewsagency.com/news/253220/benedict-xvi-to-be-buried-in-first-tomb-of-pope-john-paul-ii

Benedict XVI to be buried in first tomb of Pope John Paul II
By Hannah Brockhaus
Rome Newsroom, Jan 2, 2023 / 06:35 am
(https://www.catholicnewsagency.com/storage/image/gettyimages-57268932.jpg?w=220&h=165)
Pope Benedict XVI visits the tomb of the late Pope John Paul II in the grotto beneath St. Peter's Basilica after a meeting with young Catholics, in preparation of the XXI World Youth Day at the Vatican April 6, 2006. | Photo by ARTURO MARI/AFP via Getty Images

Benedict XVI will be interred in the Vatican crypt in the same spot where Pope John Paul II was buried before his beatification.

Vatican spokesman Matteo Bruni confirmed the site of Benedict’s tomb to journalists on Jan. 2, the first day the pope emeritus’ body was laid in state in St. Peter’s Basilica.

Benedict’s death at age 95 was announced in Rome on Dec. 31.

Benedict XVI’s coffin will be carried to the crypt under the central part of St. Peter’s Basilica for interment after his funeral Mass on Jan. 5.
 ::snipping3::


Title: Re: Pope Benedict RESIGNING
Post by: grace-land on January 03, 2023, 10:13:05 AM
Looking back...

https://www.vaticannews.va/en/vatican-city/news/2023-01/pope-emeritus-benedict-xvi-overview-papacy.html
Benedict XVI: Exploring his nearly 8 years on the See of Peter
03 January 2023, 11:29
(https://www.vaticannews.va/content/dam/vaticannews/multimedia/2023/01/02/04681_25032012aem.jpg/_jcr_content/renditions/cq5dam.thumbnail.cropped.250.141.jpeg)
The late Pope Emeritus Benedict XVI waves to the faithful

Benedict XVI: Exploring his nearly 8 years on the See of Peter
As the late Pope Emeritus Benedict XVI lies in state in St. Peter’s Basilica, we take a look back over the nearly 8 years of his papacy, starting with the choice of his pontifical name through to his shock resignation
.
By Veronica Scarisbrick

https://www.vaticannews.va/en/vatican-city/news/2023-01/pope-emeritus-benedict-xvi-2006-visit-vatican-radio.html
Benedict XVI’s visit to Vatican Radio: ‘Dialogue in service of truth’
03 January 2023, 11:49
(https://www.vaticannews.va/content/dam/vaticannews/multimedia/2019/10/27/01022AEM.jpg/_jcr_content/renditions/cq5dam.thumbnail.cropped.250.141.jpeg)

In the wake of the death of Pope Emeritus Benedict XVI, we recall his historic visit to the headquarters of Vatican Radio in 2006, and his invitation for Vatican media to engage in the “great dialogue of truth”.
By Veronica Scarisbrick

https://www.vaticannews.va/en/vatican-city/news/2023-01/pope-emeritus-benedict-xvi-alessandro-gisotti-faith-digital-age.html
Benedict XVI and the transmission of the faith in the digital age
03 January 2023, 15:30
(https://www.vaticannews.va/content/dam/vaticannews/multimedia/2020/07/17/76807_12122012---CopiaAEM.jpg/_jcr_content/renditions/cq5dam.thumbnail.cropped.750.422.jpeg)
Pope Emeritus Benedict XVI sends the first papal tweet on 12 December 2012

Pope Emeritus Benedict XVI was not only a fine theologian, but also a skilled communicator throughout his life, employing courage and creativity to engage the challenge of social media and continuing to communicate effectively in his retirement through silence and prayer.
By Alessandro Gisotti


Title: Re: Pope Benedict RESIGNING
Post by: grace-land on January 03, 2023, 10:29:36 AM
https://www.catholicnewsagency.com/news/253230/bells-to-ring-for-benedict-xvi-in-all-catholic-churches-in-germany

Bells to ring for Benedict XVI in all Catholic churches in Germany
By AC Wimmer
CNA Newsroom, Jan 3, 2023 / 09:30 am
(https://www.catholicnewsagency.com/storage/image/shutterstock-2243836935.jpg?w=220&h=165)
Pope Benedict XVI during audiences in Vatican in Rome | Marco Iacobucci Epp|Shutterstock

A peal of Church bells will ring out across Germany in mourning for Pope Emeritus Benedict XVI on Thursday, the day of his funeral.

The bells of all Catholic churches of the 27 dioceses of Germany are expected to toll at 11 a.m. (local time) on Jan 5. to pay respect for the late pontiff.

Bishops from the 27 dioceses in Germany are expected to attend the funeral in Rome.

All seven Bavarian dioceses will be represented by their respective bishops. For the Archdiocese of Munich and Freising, where Benedict — as Cardinal Joseph Ratzinger — was archbishop from 1977 to 1982, a delegation headed by Cardinal Reinhard Marx will attend the funeral service.
 ::snipping3::


Title: Re: Pope Benedict RESIGNING
Post by: grace-land on January 03, 2023, 01:52:18 PM
https://www.catholicnewsagency.com/news/253233/personal-secretary-of-benedict-xvi-set-to-publish-new-book-who-is-he

Personal secretary of Benedict XVI set to publish new book: Who is he?
By Kelsey Wicks, Jonah McKeown
Vatican City, Jan 3, 2023 / 11:00 am
(https://www.catholicnewsagency.com/storage/image/5c9cf408-e91c-4a45-a16d-cb5bd6d13879.jpg?w=220&h=165)
Archbishop Georg Gänswein bent down to kiss the hands of his friend and mentor, Pope Emeritus Benedict XVI. | Vatican Media

As Pope Emeritus Benedict XVI’s personal secretary, Archbishop Georg Gänswein became a well-known presence in the Catholic world, especially since Benedict’s resignation in 2013.

The 65-year-old German not only spoke on Benedict’s behalf frequently but also staunchly defended him from criticism on numerous occasions, as he did most recently in an exclusive interview with EWTN detailing Benedict’s response to a German law firm’s report on the Church’s handling of sexual abuse cases in the Archdiocese of Munich and Freising.

Now, Gänswein has written a book detailing his life with the former pope: “Nothing but the Truth: My Life Beside Pope Benedict XVI.”

Set to be published this month in Italian, the book promises to give a firsthand account of the pontificate of Benedict XVI.
 ::snipping3::

 :sad:
https://twitter.com/EdwardPentin?ref_src=twsrc%5Egoogle%7Ctwcamp%5Eserp%7Ctwgr%5Eauthor

Edward Pentin @EdwardPentin · 4h

Traditionis Custodes “hit him very hard,” said +Gänswein. “I think it broke Pope Benedict’s heart.”
 ::snipping3::


Title: Re: Pope Benedict RESIGNING
Post by: grace-land on January 03, 2023, 04:43:01 PM
https://www.vaticannews.va/en/vatican-city/news/2023-01/pope-emeritus-benedict-xvi-requiem-mass-details.html

Pope Francis to preside at Requiem Mass for Pope Emeritus Benedict XVI
03 January 2023, 17:58

The Holy See Press Office releases details of the Requiem Mass which Pope Francis will preside over on Thursday for the repose of the soul of the late Pope Emeritus Benedict XVI.
By Devin Watkins

The Vatican has published the rite for the Requiem Mass for Pope Emeritus Benedict XVI, which will be celebrated on Thursday at 9:30 AM Rome time.

The booklet for the Mass is based largely on the Rite of Christian Burial of a Supreme Pontiff with several modifications.

Matteo Bruni, the Director of the Holy See Press Office, told reporters on Tuesday that some portions have been added, while others more relevant to the death of a reigning Pope have been taken out.

As an example, he said the supplications for the Diocese of Rome and the Oriental Churches have been removed.
 ::snipping3::
https://www.catholicnewsagency.com/news/253226/funeral-of-benedict-xvi-everything-you-need-to-know
Funeral of Benedict XVI: Everything you need to know
By CNA Staff
Vatican City, Jan 3, 2023 / 01:46 am

https://www.catholicnewsagency.com/news/253231/here-are-the-prayers-that-will-be-offered-at-benedict-xvi-s-funeral-mass
Here are the prayers and readings for Pope Emeritus Benedict XVI’s funeral Mass
By Courtney Mares
Rome Newsroom, Jan 3, 2023 / 09:07 am


Title: Re: Pope Benedict RESIGNING
Post by: grace-land on January 04, 2023, 05:00:34 PM
https://www.vaticannews.va/en/vatican-city/news/2023-01/ganswein-benedict-xvi-lived-loving-the-lord-to-the-end.html

Archbishop Gänswein: Benedict XVI lived loving the Lord until the end
04 January 2023, 18:38

The private secretary of the late Pope Emeritus Benedict XVI, Archbishop Georg Gänswein, speaks to Vatican News and offers a moving testimony of the late Pontiff’s final hours and of the many years he spent at his side.
By Silvia Kritzenberger

Tried, moved, but at the same time at peace. Archbishop Georg Gänswein, Prefect of the Papal Household and private secretary first of Cardinal Joseph Ratzinger and then of Benedict XVI, visited the studios of Vatican Radio a day ahead of the funeral of the man he served for many years.

In an interview, he recounts the last moments of the earthly existence of the man who served the Church as Bishop of Rome from 2005 to 2013, and then made the historic choice of renouncing to the Pontificate almost ten years ago.

Q: Thousands of faithful paid their respects to the mortal remains of the Pope Emeritus. You have spent a large part of your life with him. How do you live now?

Humanly, suffering very much. It hurts, I suffer… Spiritually, very well. I know Pope Benedict is now where he wanted to go.
 ::snipping3::


Title: Re: Pope Benedict RESIGNING
Post by: grace-land on January 04, 2023, 05:05:45 PM
https://www.vaticannews.va/en/pope/news/2023-01/pope-pens-preface-to-book-of-benedict-xvi-spiritual-thoughts.html

Pope Francis: Theology of Benedict XVI was passion steeped in the Gospel
04 January 2023, 10:02

Pope Francis writes the preface to book gathering the late Pope Emeritus Benedict XVI's spiritual reflections, edited by Luca Caruso and entitled 'God is Always New', which will be published by the Vatican Publishing House on 14 January.
By Pope Francis

I am delighted that the reader has in hand this text on the spiritual thought of the late Pope Benedict XVI. The title already expresses one of the most distinctive aspects of his magisterium and vision of faith: God is always new because He is the source and reason for beauty, grace, and truth. God is never repetitive, God surprises us, God brings newness. The spiritual freshness that arises from these pages strongly confirms this reality.

Benedict XVI did theology on his knees in prayer. His explanation of matters of faith was carried out with the devotion of a man who totally surrendered himself to God and who, under the guidance of the Holy Spirit, sought an ever-greater understanding of the mystery of Jesus, who fascinated him from his youth.
 ::snipping3::


Title: Re: Pope Benedict RESIGNING
Post by: grace-land on January 04, 2023, 05:27:45 PM
Video, with English commentary, at the link...

https://www.vaticannews.va/en/pope/news/2023-01/pope-audience-remembers-benedict-xvi-great-master-catechesis.html
Pope at Audience: Benedict XVI was 'great master' of catechesis
04 January 2023, 09:20

At the Wednesday General Audience, Pope Francis recalls the late Pope Emeritus Benedict XVI as a "great master" of catechesis, who always sought to help others encounter the Lord, and concludes his catechesis series on the theme of discernment.
By Vatican News staff reporter

At the beginning of his catechesis at the Wednesday General Audience, Pope Francis paid tribute to his predecessor, the late Pope Emeritus Benedict XVI, whose funeral will be held on Thursday.

Thousand of pilgrims gathered in the Paul VI Audience Hall in the Vatican to hear the Pope and pay their respects to the Pope Emeritus lying in state in Saint Peter's Basilica. On Monday and Tuesday alone, over 135,000 people visited the Basilica.

“I would like us to join with those here beside us who are paying their respects to Benedict XVI, and to turn my thoughts to him, a great master of catechesis. His acute and gentle thought was not self-referential, but ecclesial, because he always wanted to accompany us in the encounter with Jesus. Jesus, Crucified and Risen, the Living One and the Lord, was the destination to which Pope Benedict led us, taking us by the hand. May he help us rediscover in Christ the joy of believing and the hope of living.”
 ::snipping3::
https://www.vatican.va/content/francesco/en/audiences/2023.index.html
Audiences 2023
General Audience of 4 January 2023 - Catechesis on Discernment. 14. Spiritual Accompaniment



Title: Re: Pope Benedict RESIGNING
Post by: grace-land on January 04, 2023, 05:49:28 PM
https://www.ncregister.com/blog/benedict-xvi-s-funeral-updates-from-the-vatican

Benedict XVI’s Funeral: Updates from the Vatican
Latest news on Benedict XVI and his funeral to be celebrated in St. Peter’s Square on Thursday.
Edward Pentin  January 4, 2023

All times: Rome (CET):

January 4, 2023

18.02 — Many Priests Expected

Some 3,700 priests from around the world are expected to attend the funeral tomorrow.

13.21 — Italy: Flags to Be Flown at Half-Mast

“On the occasion of the solemn funeral of Pope Emeritus Benedict XVI, the Prime Minister's Office has arranged for national and European flags on public buildings throughout the country to be flown at half-mast on Jan. 5, 2023.”
 ::snipping3::

https://www.catholicnewsagency.com/news/253252/portuguals-president-criticizes-vatican-delegation-restrictions-for-benedict-xvi-funeral
Portugual’s president unhappy with Vatican delegation restrictions for Benedict XVI funeral
By Hannah Brockhaus
Rome Newsroom, Jan 4, 2023 / 16:15 pm

The president of Portugal has criticized the Vatican’s restriction of official delegations for the funeral of Pope Emeritus Benedict XVI.

In comments to journalists this week, Marcelo Nuno Duarte Rebelo de Sousa indicated that he did not agree with the Vatican’s announcement that only Italy and Germany would have official delegations at the Jan. 5 funeral, though other heads of state may attend in a personal capacity.
 ::snipping3::


Title: Re: Pope Benedict RESIGNING
Post by: grace-land on January 04, 2023, 06:46:14 PM
https://www.catholicnewsagency.com/news/253251/benedict-xvis-funeral-how-to-watch-what-to-expect

Benedict XVI’s funeral: How to watch, what to expect
By Joe Bukuras
Washington, D.C. Newsroom, Jan 4, 2023 / 15:22 pm

The funeral of Pope Emeritus Benedict XVI will be held on Thursday in Rome in St. Peter’s Square at 9:30 a.m. local time.

For those who wish to watch the funeral live in the United States, it will begin at 3:30 a.m. Eastern Time. EWTN’s live coverage begins at 2:30 a.m. Eastern Time on cable television, as well as on EWTN’s YouTube Channel, Facebook, and website.

EWTN’s YouTube channel can be found here. Its Facebook can be found here. EWTN’s webpage where the funeral is livestreaming can be found here.

Your local broadcast times for cable television and a full schedule are available here. The funeral broadcast coverage will last approximately three and a half hours.

If you miss the live coverage, EWTN will rebroadcast the funeral on cable the same day at 2:30 p.m. and 9 p.m. Eastern Time.

Before the funeral Mass, there will be a rosary prayed in St. Peter’s Square. At 8:50 a.m. Central European Standard Time, Benedict’s coffin, which is currently lying in state in St. Peter’s Basilica, will be transported from the basilica for the funeral.

Pope Francis will preside over the funeral Mass.

Vatican spokesman Matteo Bruni told reporters that the funeral Mass for the pope emeritus “roughly follows that reserved for a supreme pontiff” but has some changes
 ::snipping3::

---Edited to add the following:

https://www.catholicnewsagency.com/news/253231/here-are-the-prayers-that-will-be-offered-at-benedict-xvi-s-funeral-mass
Here are the prayers and readings for Pope Emeritus Benedict XVI’s funeral Mass
By Courtney Mares
Rome Newsroom, Jan 3, 2023 / 09:07 am


Title: Re: Pope Benedict RESIGNING
Post by: grace-land on January 04, 2023, 07:18:59 PM
https://www.catholicnewsagency.com/news/253254/heres-how-to-pray-the-us-bishops-special-novena-for-pope-emeritus-benedict-xvi

Here's how to pray the U.S. bishops’ special novena for Pope Emeritus Benedict XVI
By Peter Pinedo
Washington, D.C. Newsroom, Jan 4, 2023 / 06:46 am

The U.S. bishops are calling on American Catholics to join them in praying a novena for the soul of the late Pope Benedict XVI, beginning the day of his funeral Jan. 5.

“The entire Church mourns the death of our Emeritus Holy Father, Benedict XVI,” an introductory statement on the United States Conference of Catholic Bishops (USCCB) website said. “This novena has been prepared to help pray for the Pope Emeritus during this time.”

The 95-year-old Benedict, who served as pope from 2005 through 2013, died Dec. 31. His funeral will be held Thursday, Jan. 5, in St. Peter’s Square at 9:30 a.m. Rome time. For more information about how to watch coverage of the funeral on EWTN and its social media platforms, read CNA’s guide here.

The novena, published on the USCCB website, consists of nine days of prayer and reflection on scripture and ecclesiastical texts about God’s establishment of the papacy and Church. The faithful are encouraged to participate in the novena from Jan. 5 through Jan. 13.
 ::snipping3::
https://www.usccb.org/novena-pope-benedict-xvi#tab--day-1-january-5-%E2%80%94-you-are-peter%E2%80%A6
Novena in Memory of Pope Benedict XVI


Title: Re: Pope Benedict RESIGNING
Post by: grace-land on January 05, 2023, 10:09:18 AM
Rest in Peace, Pope Benedict  ::MonkeyAngel:: ::MonkeyTears::

Videos at the link below:
     Entrance into St. Peter's Square of casket of Pope Emeritus Benedict XVI
     Full video of Requiem Mass of Pope Emeritus Benedict XVI--with English commentary

https://www.vaticannews.va/en/pope/news/2023-01/pope-at-funeral-benedict-may-your-joy-now-be-complete.html
Pope Francis at Requiem Mass: 'Benedict, may your joy now be complete!'
05 January 2023, 10:13
(https://www.vaticannews.va/content/dam/vaticannews/agenzie/images/srv/2023/01/05/2022-01-05-santa-messa-per-le-esequie-del-sommo-pontefice-emerit/1672909983990.JPG/_jcr_content/renditions/cq5dam.thumbnail.cropped.750.422.jpeg)
Funeral Mass for Pope Emeritus Benedict XVI

In his homily at the Requiem Mass for Pope Emeritus Benedict XVI, Pope Francis commends his predecessor into the loving hands of God the Father, and prays that his joy may now be complete as he contemplates the Lord face to face.
By Thaddeus Jones

“Father, into your hands I commend my spirit.”

Pope Francis recalled those final words spoken by the Lord, as proclaimed in the Gospel reading at the Requiem Mass for the late Pope Emeritus Benedict XVI on Thursday morning in St. Peter's Square.

In his homily, the Pope said Jesus' final words summed up the Lord's entire life, "a ceaseless self-entrustment into the hands of His Father."

The Lord's were hands of "forgiveness and compassion, healing and mercy, anointing and blessing," recalled Pope Francis, as he entrusted Himself also into the hands of His brothers and sisters, offering the ultimate sacrifice of life in loving and serving others.
 ::snipping3::
https://www.vatican.va/content/francesco/en/homilies/2023/documents/20230105_omelia-esequie-benedetto-xvi.html
PAPAL CHAPEL FOR THE FUNERAL OF POPE EMERITUS BENEDICT XVI
HOMILY OF HIS HOLINESS POPE FRANCIS
Saint Peter's Square
Thursday, 5 January 2023
[Multimedia]


Title: Re: Pope Benedict RESIGNING
Post by: grace-land on January 05, 2023, 10:42:28 AM
 ::MonkeyAngel::  "Santo subito!"
 
https://www.vaticannews.va/en/pope/news/2023-01/pope-francis-pope-emeritus-benedict-xvi-funeral-requiem-mass.html
Requiem for Benedict XVI
05 January 2023, 16:22
(https://www.vaticannews.va/content/dam/vaticannews/agenzie/images/ansa/2023/01/05/12/1672918086154.jpg/_jcr_content/renditions/cq5dam.thumbnail.cropped.750.422.jpeg)

Pope Francis on Thursday presides over what is a particularly historic Requiem Mass for his predecessor, Pope Emeritus Benedict XVI.
By Francesca Merlo

An estimated fifty thousand people filled up St Peter’s Square on Thursday to celebrate the life of Pope Emeritus, Benedict the XVI.

The first in many years

The Pope emeritus’ death, on Saturday, brought an end to almost a decade of two Popes (former and present), living in the Vatican at the same time. Benedict’s resignation in 2013 was the first in over 600 years, and his funeral on Thursday was the first in over 200 years in which a reigning Pontiff blessed the body of his predecessor before burial.

The crowd applauded as pallbearers carried Benedict’s cypress coffin out of the fog-shrouded St. Peter’s Basilica and rested it before the altar in the square outside. Pope Francis then opened the service with a prayer and closed it by solemnly blessing the simple casket — decorated only with the former pope’s coat of arms.
 ::snipping3::
"Santo subito!"

At the end of the funeral in St. Peter's Square, some people shouted in Italian "Santo Subito!" (Make him a saint now!), repeating the phrase exclaimed, by many people, at the funeral of Pope John Paul II in 2005.

Francis, who sat for most of the service because of a knee ailment, rose at the end as Benedict's coffin was being carried away for a private burial inside St Peter's Basilica. Bowing his head in silent prayer and briefly touched the casket.


Title: Re: Pope Benedict RESIGNING
Post by: grace-land on January 05, 2023, 12:45:39 PM
 ::MonkeyAngel::
https://www.vaticannews.va/en/vatican-city/news/2023-01/pope-emeritus-benedict-xvi-deed-rogito-coffin.html
Deed of Pope Emeritus Benedict XVI placed in casket
05 January 2023, 11:05
(https://www.vaticannews.va/content/dam/vaticannews/agenzie/images/srv/2023/01/05/2022-01-05-santa-messa-per-le-esequie-del-sommo-pontefice-emerit/1672907597163.JPG/_jcr_content/renditions/cq5dam.thumbnail.cropped.250.141.jpeg)
The casket of the late Pope Emeritus Benedict XVI  (Vatican Media)

As the late Pope Emeritus Benedict XVI is laid to rest, the Holy See Press Office publishes the text of the Deed placed in his coffin, which recounts his biography for posterity.
By Vatican News

The coffin of the late Pope Emeritus Benedict XVI was sealed in a ritual in St. Peter’s Basilica on Wednesday evening, after around 200,000 pilgrims had finished paying their respects to the German-born Pope.

As per tradition, the Pope Emeritus' pallium, coins and medals minted during his pontificate, as well as a "Rogito" or Deed summarizing the highlights of his papacy, were also placed inside the casket.

Following the Requiem Mass on Thursday, Pope Emeritus Benedict XVI's coffin was transported through the Basilica and to the Vatican crypt for burial, in the first tomb of John Paul II.

He was buried in the traditional triple coffin, with caskets made of cypress wood, zinc, and oak.

Ahead of the Requiem Mass, the Holy See Press Office published the full text of the Deed, written in Latin and sealed inside a metal cylinder.

The following is an English-language translation of the Deed:

DEED FOR THE PIOUS TRANSIT
OF HIS HOLINESS BENEDICT XVI, POPE EMERITUS
OBITUS, DEPOSITIO ET TUMULATIO
BENEDICTI PP XVI SANCTAE MEMORIAE

In the light of Christ risen from the dead, on 31 December in the year of our Lord 2022, at 9.34 a.m., as the year came to an end and we were ready to sing the Te Deum for the many benefits granted by the Lord, the beloved Pastor emeritus of the Church, Benedict XVI, departed from this world for the Father. The whole Church together with the Holy Father Francis  accompanied his passing transfer with prayers.

Benedict XVI was the 265th Pope. His memory lives on in the heart of the Church and of all humanity.
 ::snipping3::


Title: Re: Pope Benedict RESIGNING
Post by: grace-land on January 05, 2023, 01:13:18 PM
 ::MonkeyAngel::

Photos...

https://www.catholicnewsagency.com/news/253257/photos-scenes-from-the-funeral-of-pope-emeritus-benedict-xvi
PHOTOS: Scenes from the funeral of Pope Emeritus Benedict XVI
By Daniel Ibañez
Vatican City, Jan 5, 2023 / 08:35 am
(https://www.catholicnewsagency.com/storage/image/whatsapp-image-2023-01-05-at-3.03.58-am-2.jpeg?w=220&h=165)
Archbishop Georg Gänswein (right), the longtime personal secretary for Benedict XVI, kneels to kiss the book of the Gospels atop the coffin of the pope emeritus on Jan. 5, 2023, in St. Peter's Square | Daniel Ibañez/CNA

Video a the link below--
https://www.catholicnewsagency.com/news/253263/photos-solemn-images-of-the-closing-of-pope-emeritus-benedict-xvis-coffin
PHOTOS: Solemn images of the closing of Pope Emeritus Benedict XVI’s coffin
By Hannah Brockhaus
Vatican City, Jan 5, 2023 / 08:14 am
(https://www.catholicnewsagency.com/storage/image/b16-coffin-1.jpg?w=220&h=165)
Before the wooden coffin is closed, Benedict XVI’s personal secretary Archbishop Georg Gänswein and Monsignor Diego Giovanni Ravelli, the Vatican’s lead master of ceremonies for papal liturgies, place a white veil over the late pope’s face. The action on Jan. 4, 2023, is part of the funeral rites for popes. | Vatican Media

Video at the link below--
https://www.catholicnewsagency.com/news/253261/benedict-xvi-laid-to-rest-in-strictly-private-ceremony
PHOTOS: Benedict XVI laid to rest in private ceremony
By Hannah Brockhaus
Vatican City, Jan 5, 2023 / 06:14 am
(https://www.catholicnewsagency.com/storage/image/unnamed-6.jpg?w=220&h=165)
Pope Benedict XVI's coffin is carried in St. Peter's Basilica on Jan. 5, 2023. | Vatican Media



Title: Re: Pope Benedict RESIGNING
Post by: grace-land on January 05, 2023, 10:26:37 PM
 ::MonkeyAngel::
https://www.ncregister.com/blog/sights-and-sounds-from-benedict-xvi-funeral
Sights and Sounds From Pope Benedict XVI’s Funeral
A gentle fog, calls of “Santo Subito!” and a whole lot of lederhosen.
Jonathan Liedl Blogs January 5, 2023
(https://publisher-ncreg.s3.us-east-2.amazonaws.com/pb-ncregister/swp/hv9hms/media/20230105090116_83e8bffdb14c13ec79b600672f189400113cfe6064b140b5bf0bb0ad1e84577a.webp)
A Pontifical Swiss Guard attends the funeral Mass for Pope Emeritus Benedict XVI in St. Peter's Square on Thursday. (photo: Ernesto Ruscio / Getty Images)

VATICAN CITY — Pope Benedict XVI, whose entire theological project was singular focused on the person of Christ, once described Jesus as the one “in whom God’s love descends upon human beings.”

The weather at the scholarly Pope’s funeral today provided a poetic illustration of this truth — a gentle fog enshrouded St. Peter’s Basilica as the Church universal commended Benedict to the love and mercy of God.

“The holy cloud, the shekinah, is the sign of the presence of God himself. The cloud hovering over the Tent of Meeting indicated that God was present,” the late Pope had written in Volume One of his Jesus of Nazareth trilogy.
 ::snipping3::


Title: Re: Pope Benedict RESIGNING
Post by: grace-land on January 06, 2023, 10:14:18 AM
https://www.catholicnewsagency.com/news/253264/the-story-behind-the-image-hanging-at-benedict-xvi-s-funeral

The story behind the image hanging at Benedict XVI’s funeral
By Hannah Brockhaus
Vatican City, Jan 5, 2023 / 13:00 pm
(https://www.catholicnewsagency.com/storage/image/unnamed-3.jpg?w=220&h=165)
Benedict XVI’s coffin exits St. Peter’s Basilica beneath an image of Christ’s resurrection on the morning of his funeral Jan. 5, 2022 | Evandro Inetti/CNA

A large banner of the resurrection of Christ provided the decorative backdrop to the altar during Benedict XVI’s funeral on Thursday.

The image, which hung in front of the central entrance to St. Peter’s Basilica, appears to be a copy of an 18th-century tapestry belonging to the Vatican.

According to Vatican News, the original tapestry is made from wool, silk, and silver threads, and dates to 1783–1784.

The textile is part of the Vatican’s collection of art and hangs in the Apostolic Palace, in the Apartments of the Papal Representative. It was woven by Giuseppe Folli from a cartoon by Pier Paolo Panci after “The Resurrection” by Anthony van Dyck, who died in 1641.

Benedict XVI may have also been fond of the image, which shows the resurrected Christ exiting the tomb with his arm raised in triumph.

The image frequently hung behind the Bavarian pope when he gave addresses from the balcony of his summer residence, Castel Gandolfo
 ::snipping3::


Title: Re: Pope Benedict RESIGNING
Post by: grace-land on January 06, 2023, 10:25:29 AM
https://www.catholicnewsagency.com/news/253268/analysis-a-closer-look-at-the-ceremonial-details-of-benedict-xvis-funeral

Analysis: A closer look at the ceremonial details of Benedict XVI’s funeral
By Andrea Gagliarducci
Vatican City, Jan 6, 2023 / 00:01 am
(https://www.catholicnewsagency.com/storage/image/mtc0032.jpg?w=220&h=165)
Archbishop Georg Ganswein (left), longtime personal secretary of Pope Benedict XVI, kisses the coffin of friend and mentor at his funeral on Jan. 5, 2023, at the Vatican. | Vatican Media

There is no doubt that the funeral of Pope Emeritus Benedict XVI on Jan. 5 was a pope’s funeral. Not only was the funeral rite the one foreseen for the death of a pope, but so were all the rites that accompanied it.

For example, the medals and coins of the pontificate, the “rogito” (the brief document describing the pontificate), and the palliums that characterized his activity — that of archbishop of Munich, that of dean of the College of Cardinals, and that of pope — were buried with Benedict in the coffin, as is customary for a pope.

Also, the celebration was the classic one of the pope’s death, except for the abolition of the supplication of the Diocese of Rome and that of the Eastern Churches. Both of these pleas, in fact, specifically concern the death of a reigning pope and would not have been indicated for pope emeritus.

The funeral rite for Benedict XVI followed that which was reserved for Pope John Paul II on April 8, 2005. However, there were slight differences, such as the decision not to use the Roman Canon, the most ancient Eucharistic Prayer of the Roman Church, which until now has always been the custom. Instead, Eucharistic Prayer III was used.

In every single gesture, it was demonstrated that Benedict XVI was a pope of the Catholic Church and that his pontificate is part of the history of the Church.
 ::snipping3::


Title: Re: Pope Benedict RESIGNING
Post by: grace-land on January 06, 2023, 10:30:24 AM
https://www.catholicnewsagency.com/news/253260/a-ratzinger-reader-5-books-to-help-you-encounter-pope-benedict-xvi

A Ratzinger reader: 5 books to help you encounter Pope Benedict XVI
By Matthew Bunson
Vatican City, Jan 5, 2023 / 12:00 pm

Pope Benedict XVI — especially during his extraordinary career and ministry as a theologian and professor — was not only one of the towering intellects in global Catholicism but also one of the most prolific.

In his nine decades of life, Joseph Ratzinger wrote more than 60 books and more than 1,300 articles, essays, and academic pieces; three encyclicals; and four apostolic exhortations. The writings range from profound theological tomes to general audiences to spiritual reflections, to encyclicals, to more popular books and book-length interviews. They cover fundamental and dogmatic theology, biblical exegesis, spiritual theology, cultural commentary, and catechesis on virtually every possible aspect of the faith.

It is a daunting task to begin reading his work, not merely because of the sheer volume but also the intimidating subject.

Here are five suggestions for a Benedict reading list. They span decades and topics, but each has been chosen as emblematic of his teachings and each is also accessible to the average reader. Any list is subjective, of course, but this is a potentially helpful place to start wandering through a holy and profound mind.

“Introduction to Christianity” (1968)
 ::snipping3::


Title: Re: Pope Benedict RESIGNING
Post by: grace-land on January 07, 2023, 04:38:06 PM
https://www.vaticannews.va/en/pope/news/2023-01/pope-francis-meets-cardinal-zen.html

Pope Francis meets Cardinal Zen
07 January 2023, 16:44

Cardinal Joseph Zen Ze-Kiun, visiting the Vatican to attend the funeral Mass of Pope Emeritus Benedict XVI on Thursday, meets Pope Francis.
Vatican News

Pope Francis has met Cardinal Joseph Zen, Bishop Emeritus of Hong Kong, visiting Rome for the occasion of  the funeral of Benedict XVI. The meeting took place on Friday in Casa Santa Marta, the Pope's residence in the Vatican

The ninety-year-old Chinese prelate was created a cardinal by the Pope Emeritus in 2006.
 ::snipping3::

https://twitter.com/EdwardPentin?ref_src=twsrc%5Egoogle%7Ctwcamp%5Eserp%7Ctwgr%5Eauthor
Edward Pentin Retweeted
Joseph Zen@CardJosephZen·17h

Our beloved Pope Emeritto Benedict XVi, please continue to pray for us in heaven. #BenedictoXVI

Il nostro amato Papa Emeritto Benedetto XVi, per favore, continui a pregare per noi in cielo.

親愛的榮休教宗本篤十六世,請在天上繼續為教會祈禱!
(https://pbs.twimg.com/media/Fl2NR3YXEAETPrT?format=jpg&name=small)

https://www.catholicnewsagency.com/news/253283/cardinal-zen-meets-pope-francis-prays-at-benedict-xvi-s-tomb
Cardinal Zen meets Pope Francis, prays at Benedict XVI’s tomb
By Hannah Brockhaus
Rome Newsroom, Jan 7, 2023 / 03:10 am

https://www.lifesitenews.com/news/pope-francis-finally-meets-with-persecuted-cdl-zen-why-now/
Pope Francis finally meets with persecuted Cdl. Zen. Why now?
Michael Haynes
Fri Jan 6, 2023 - 7:27 pm EST


Title: Re: Pope Benedict RESIGNING
Post by: grace-land on January 07, 2023, 05:22:04 PM
 ::MonkeyAngel::
https://www.vaticannews.va/en/pope/news/2023-01/benedict-xvi-tomb-vatican-grottoes-reopen-sunday-8-january.html
Benedict XVI tomb open to public from Sunday
07 January 2023, 18:04

Work on the Pope Emeritus Benedict XVI’s final resting place in the crypt under St. Peter’s Basilica is completed and the site will be open to visitors from Sunday, 8 January.
By Linda Bordoni

Starting in the morning of Sunday, 8 January, the tomb of Pope Emeritus Benedict XVI can be visited in the Vatican Grottoes, beneath St. Peter’s Basilica.

A communiqué from the Holy See Press Office said the public will be able to enter the area from 9 am CET.

The triple coffin made of cypress, zinc and oak, with the body of the Pope emeritus, was buried in the former tomb of Pope St. John Paul II, on 5 January following the celebration of a Requiem Mass presided over by Pope Francis.
 ::snipping3::
https://www.catholicnewsagency.com/news/253285/how-to-visit-the-tomb-of-benedict-xvi
How to visit the tomb of Benedict XVI
By Hannah Brockhaus
Rome Newsroom, Jan 7, 2023 / 11:00 am

http://stpetersbasilica.info/grottoes.htm
Vatican Grottoes below St. Peter's


Title: Re: Pope Benedict RESIGNING
Post by: grace-land on January 08, 2023, 10:27:16 AM
https://www.catholicnewsagency.com/news/253286/pope-benedict-xvi-doctor-of-the-church

Pope Benedict XVI: Doctor of the Church?
By Matthew Bunson
Rome, Italy, Jan 8, 2023 / 00:01 am

There are currently 37 Doctors of the Church, four women and 33 men, spanning the course of Church history, from Irenaeus of Lyon in the 3rd century to Thérèse of Lisieux in the 19th century.

It is a classically Catholic pastime to speculate who might be named the next member of this extraordinary and extraordinarily exclusive club. Long before his passing, the name Pope Benedict XVI has been proposed as a worthy candidate to become a Doctor of the Church. What exactly would this entail, and is he, indeed, a suitable candidate?

It might be useful to ask first what, technically, is a Doctor of the Church?

Traditionally, the title of Doctor of the Church has been granted on the basis of three requirements: the manifest holiness of a candidate affirmed by their canonization as a saint; their eminence in doctrine demonstrated by the leaving behind of a body of teachings that made significant and lasting contributions to the life of the Church; and a formal declaration by the Church, usually by a pope.
 ::snipping3::


Title: Re: Pope Benedict RESIGNING
Post by: grace-land on January 08, 2023, 12:25:39 PM
 ::MonkeyAngel::

Photos at the link...

https://twitter.com/vaticannews?lang=en
Vatican News@VaticanNews · 10h

The faithful arrive to visit the tomb of Pope Benedict XVI, opened since 9 am CET Sunday morning.
(https://pbs.twimg.com/media/Fl7_XKjWYAYEJO5?format=jpg&name=360x360)


Title: Re: Pope Benedict RESIGNING
Post by: grace-land on January 09, 2023, 12:31:12 PM
https://www.catholicnewsagency.com/news/253293/pope-francis-meets-with-benedict-xvis-longtime-secretary-archbishop-ganswein

Pope Francis meets with Benedict XVI’s longtime secretary, Archbishop Gänswein
By Jonathan Liedl
Vatican City, Jan 9, 2023 / 09:24 am
(https://www.catholicnewsagency.com/storage/image/38e16ae0-05d1-46f6-9aad-d418d86eaeb7.jpg?w=220&h=165)
Archbishop Georg Gänswein and Pope Francis | Daniel Ibanez/CNA

Archbishop Georg Gänswein, the longtime personal secretary of the late Pope Benedict XVI, met with Pope Francis this morning, according to the Vatican’s daily press briefing.

The German prelate’s meeting with the Holy Father comes only four days after Benedict XVI was laid to rest in the crypt of St. Peter’s Basilica on Thursday, Jan. 5.

It also took place shortly before the public release of Gänswein’s forthcoming book detailing his nearly 20 years of service to Benedict XVI. According to a preview of the text published by Reuters, the book includes details about the German pope’s alleged disagreements with his Argentinian successor over matters such as Pope Francis’ restriction of the traditional Latin Mass and his statements regarding moral matters such as abortion and homosexuality.

Titled “Nothing But The Truth — My Life Beside Benedict XVI,” Gänswein’s 330-page book will be released in Italian on Jan. 12. Vatican spokesman Matteo Bruni has provided no comment on the book, which was written with Italian journalist Saverio Gaeta.
 ::snipping3::
https://www.reuters.com/world/book-by-benedicts-top-aide-reveals-tensions-vatican-2023-01-06/
4 minute readJanuary 7, 20231:07 AM CSTLast Updated 2 days ago
Book by Benedict's top aide reveals tensions in Vatican
By Philip Pullella

https://www.lifesitenews.com/news/pope-benedict-thought-pope-francis-restriction-of-the-latin-mass-was-a-mistake-abp-ganswein-reveals/
Pope Benedict thought Pope Francis’ restriction of the Latin Mass was a ‘mistake’: Abp. Gänswein reveals
Michael Haynes
Mon Jan 9, 2023 - 5:51 am EST


Title: Re: Pope Benedict RESIGNING
Post by: grace-land on January 09, 2023, 12:42:07 PM
https://www.vaticannews.va/en/vatican-city/news/2023-01/lev-publishes-collection-of-ten-speeches-by-benedict-xvi.html

LEV-Rizzoli publish a collection of ten significant speeches by Benedict XVI
09 January 2023, 16:13
(https://www.vaticannews.va/content/dam/vaticannews/multimedia/2023/01/09/copertina-libro-Benedetto-XVI._1jpg.jpg/_jcr_content/renditions/cq5dam.thumbnail.cropped.250.141.jpeg)
The new book "With God you are never alone"

The Vatican's publishing house, Libreria Editrice Vaticana (LEV), along with the Italian Rizzoli, publish "With God you are never alone", a collection of Pope Emeritus Benedict XVI’s most pregnant speeches during his pontificate, with the Preface of Father Federico Lombardi, S.J..
By Lisa Zengarini

For the first time ten of Benedict XVI’s most momentous speeches during his pontificate have been published in one volume.  Titled "With God you are never alone" (“Con Dio non sei mai solo”), the book is published by the Vatican's publishing house, Libreria Editrice Vaticana (LEV), along with the  Italian Rizzoli, and hit the shelves on 9 January, just over a week after the Pope Emeritus’ death on 31 December 2022.
 ::snipping3::


Title: Re: Pope Benedict RESIGNING
Post by: grace-land on January 12, 2023, 07:39:00 PM
https://www.catholicnewsagency.com/news/253321/analysis-what-to-read-in-benedict-xvi-s-secretary-s-tell-all-book

Analysis: What to read in Benedict XVI’s secretary’s ‘tell-all’ book?
By Andrea Gagliarducci
Rome Newsroom, Jan 11, 2023 / 12:48 pm

In the latest book by Archbishop Georg Gänswein, for 20 years personal secretary to Pope Benedict XVI, there is much more than bitterness at having been made a “halved prefect” by Pope Francis.

Indeed, while the hype surrounding the publication has focused on that particular situation — the removal of Gänswein as prefect of the papal household — and has characterized Gänswein as willing to seek tension, almost to place one pontificate against the other, the book offers much more than that.

In fact, perhaps its most precious content is the excerpts from the homilies that Benedict XVI gave in the Mater Ecclesiae Monastery, where he spent the last years of his life.

Those homilies are probably the most innovative element of the book, which Gänswein wrote with journalist Saverio Gaeta. Titled “Nothing but the Truth: My Life Beside Benedict XVI,” the book comes out in Italian on Jan. 12, but CNA was able to preview it.
 ::snipping3::
https://www.ncregister.com/news/when-will-english-edition-of-archbishop-gaenswein-s-book-be-released-stand-by
When Will English Edition of Archbishop Gänswein’s Book Be Released? Stand By.
Jonathan Liedl   Vatican  January 12, 2023


Title: Re: Pope Benedict RESIGNING
Post by: grace-land on January 19, 2023, 11:58:18 AM
https://www.catholicnewsagency.com/news/253392/in-new-book-the-late-benedict-xvi-defends-christianity-against-claims-of-intolerance

In new book, the late Benedict XVI defends Christianity against claims of intolerance
By AC Wimmer
CNA Newsroom, Jan 19, 2023 / 08:40 am

Pope Emeritus Benedict XVI has posthumously defended Christianity against claims of intolerance “in the name of tolerance.”

In a new book published in Italy, the late pontiff warns of a “radical manipulation of human beings” and “the distortion of the sexes by gender ideology” in the name of tolerance.

Rejecting the argument of a German theologian about monotheism being linked to intolerance, Benedict counters that “the authentic counterweight to every form of intolerance” is, in fact, Christ crucified.

The late pontiff’s contribution, dated December 2018, is published in a new collection of texts by the theologian pope, touted by the Italian publisher as a spiritual “quasi-testament.”

The 190-page volume is called “What is Christianity?” It contains 16 contributions, four of which were previously unpublished.

According to CNA Deutsch, CNA’s German-language news partner, all of the texts were written after Benedict’s resignation in 2013.
 ::snipping3::


Title: Re: Pope Benedict RESIGNING
Post by: grace-land on January 25, 2023, 05:25:14 PM
Newest interview: Associated Press interviews Pope Francis

https://www.vaticannews.va/en/pope/news/2023-01/pope-critics-help-us-grow-but-i-want-them-to-say-it-to-my-face.html
Pope: Critics help us grow, but I want them to say it to my face
25 January 2023, 18:36

Associated Press interviews Pope Francis: the conversation ranged over topics from the death of Benedict XVI, to treating homosexuals with dignity; from dialogue with China, to the German Synodal Path, to the case of Father Rupnik.
By Salvatore Cernuzio

Pope Francis has addressed a wide variety of topics – from the death of Benedict XVI, criticism of Fracncis’ papacy, homosexuality, relations with China, the case of Father Rupnik, and even his “good” health despite his age – in an interview released today by the Associated Press, an American news agency. It is the pontiff’s first interview since the death, on 31 December 2022, of his predecessor Joseph Ratzinger, whose character Pope Francis outlines in his interview with correspondent Nicole Winfield, which took place on Tuesday at Casa Santa Marta.
 ::snipping3::

Spanish transcript of AP interview with Pope Francis at the link below--
https://apnews.com/article/a5cf2c1d450064b588ab3f41d3bf6994
Transcripción de la entrevista de AP con el papa Francisco
Associated Press  today

Articles on some of the topics:

https://www.catholicnewsagency.com/news/253453/i-lost-a-dad-pope-francis-speaks-about-losing-benedict-xvi
‘I lost a dad’: Pope Francis speaks about losing Benedict XVI
By AC Wimmer
Rome Newsroom, Jan 25, 2023 / 08:50 am


Title: Re: Pope Benedict RESIGNING
Post by: grace-land on January 28, 2023, 08:07:27 PM
Hmmm...

https://www.lifesitenews.com/news/papal-biographer-claims-benedict-xvi-resigned-due-to-years-of-insomnia/
Papal biographer claims Benedict XVI resigned due to years of ‘insomnia’

Pope Benedict XVI's biographer Peter Seewald stated that the late Pope told him he had resigned due to 'insomnia' he had experienced since 2005 and that a bizarre bleeding incident in 2012 was pivotal to his resignation. But questions arise even from Seewald's statement.
Michael Haynes
Fri Jan 27, 2023 - 2:13 pm EST

VATICAN CITY (LifeSiteNews) –– Pope Benedict’s biographer Peter Seewald, has stated that the late Pontiff wrote to him last year, citing longstanding insomnia as the reason behind his 2013 resignation. However, the news adds further confusion to the details regarding Benedict’s resignation.

Seewald – who wrote the widely read biography on Pope Benedict Benedict XVI: A Life – made the comments to German language magazine Focus. In a subsequent statement to KNA, Seewald confirmed what Focus had reported, arguing that it was insomnia which was the “central reason” behind Benedict’s shock resignation in 2013.

Seewald stated that Benedict reportedly wrote to him in October 28, 2022, providing details of his medical condition while the reigning Pontiff. Citing this letter, Seewald stated that Benedict wrote of “insomnia that has accompanied me continuously since World Youth Day in Cologne.”

The Cologne World Youth Day took place in August 2005, four months after Benedict was elected Pope in mid-April. Benedict retired on February 28, 2013.
 ::snipping3::


Title: Re: Pope Benedict RESIGNING
Post by: grace-land on January 29, 2023, 10:21:45 AM
Synod on Synodality

Hmmm...

https://www.ncregister.com/blog/cardinal-hollerich-critics-of-synod-cant-stop-it
Cardinal Hollerich: Critics of the Synod ‘Won’t Be Able to Stop’ It

The general relator of the Synod on Synodality made a number of bold statements this week including the assertion that Christian Europe is a “thing of the past.”
Edward Pentin
January 28, 2023

VATICAN CITY — One of Pope Francis’ closest aides and a leading figure of the Synod on Synodality has singled out critics of the process, calling them afraid of a “Church on the move” and saying they “know they won’t be able to stop” the synodal experiment.

Cardinal Jean-Claude Hollerich of Luxembourg, the general relator of the 2021-2024 Synod on Synodality, also issued other bold statements this week including asserting that the idea of a Christian Europe is a “thing of the past,” that people should be accepted and not judged, and that Benedict XVI’s former personal secretary Archbishop Georg Gänswein had betrayed the former pope by not staying in Benedict’s “shadow.”

The Jesuit cardinal, who last year called for a revision of the Church’s teaching on homosexuality, told Quotidiano Nazionale Jan. 26 that he believes “those who want Pope Francis to resign do not want a Church on the road.”
 ::snipping3::


Title: Re: Pope Benedict RESIGNING
Post by: grace-land on February 01, 2023, 01:34:19 PM
https://www.catholicnewsagency.com/news/253519/archbishop-ganswein-celebrates-mass-for-benedict-xvi-one-month-after-pope-s-death

Archbishop Gänswein celebrates Mass for Benedict XVI one month after pope’s death
By Hannah Brockhaus
Rome Newsroom, Feb 1, 2023 / 11:25 am
(https://www.catholicnewsagency.com/storage/image/archbishop-georg-ganswein-mass-for-benedict-jan.-31-2023-3.jpeg?w=220&h=165)
Archbishop Georg Gänswein celebrates Mass in the Vatican crypt close to the tomb of Pope Benedict XVI on Jan. 31, 2023, to mark one month since the death of the pope emeritus on Dec. 31, 2022. | Angela Ambrogetti/CNA

Archbishop Georg Gänswein celebrated Mass at the tomb of St. Peter on Tuesday to mark one month since the death of Pope Benedict XVI.

Gänswein, the pope emeritus’ longtime personal secretary, offered the Mass in the Vatican crypt close to Benedict’s tomb in the presence of a small group of people.

Benedict XVI died on Dec. 31 in the Vatican. He was buried in the crypt under St. Peter’s Basilica on Jan. 5 following the celebration of his funeral Mass in St. Peter’s Square.

In his homily, Gänswein said Benedict, “one of the greatest and most influential theologians of all time on the Chair of Peter, put himself under the protection of a saint for whom there was no theology, only adoration.”
 ::snipping3::


Title: Re: Pope Benedict RESIGNING
Post by: grace-land on February 01, 2023, 01:42:08 PM
https://www.catholicnewsagency.com/news/253518/cardinal-zen-hospitalized-in-hong-kong-after-returning-from-benedict-xvi-s-funeral

Cardinal Zen hospitalized in Hong Kong after returning from Benedict XVI’s funeral
By Courtney Mares
Rome Newsroom, Feb 1, 2023 / 09:02 am
(https://www.catholicnewsagency.com/storage/image/flsevquwqaece7n.jpeg?w=220&h=165)
Cardinal Joseph Zen, former bishop of Hong Hong, attends the funeral Mass for Pope Emeritus Benedict XVI on Jan. 5, 2023, in St. Peter's Square. | Credit: Diane Montagna

Cardinal Joseph Zen has been hospitalized in Hong Kong after his health deteriorated upon returning from Benedict XVI’s funeral in Rome.

The 91-year-old cardinal wrote on his blog on Jan. 31 that he is receiving treatment in the hospital after experiencing difficulty breathing.

Zen said that the doctors have already conducted many examinations and ruled out that he does not have a bacterial infection in his lungs as he experienced in 2016 when he was hospitalized for three weeks.

“You have not heard from me as I have been staying in the hospital. Please rest assured, Hong Kong’s most senior doctors are taking care of me,” he wrote.

The former bishop of Hong Kong revealed that he had already been experiencing some health difficulties before he received permission from a Hong Kong court to travel to Rome for the Jan. 5 funeral of Benedict XVI.

Despite having inflammation in his shoulders, an aching back, and numbness in his hands, Zen said that he felt that he “could not give up the opportunity” to be present at the funeral.

“The funeral of Pope Benedict was very important to me; and like a miracle, God allowed me to go to Rome to attend: The court approved, the police let me get back my passport; the airline just had a flight so that I could catch the funeral in time, therefore, I felt that I couldn’t give up this opportunity and decided to go,” he said.

“When I went to Rome, I felt that I represented the whole of Hong Kong and the whole of China, expressing our respect and love to Pope Benedict XVI.”
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Title: Re: Pope Benedict RESIGNING
Post by: grace-land on February 08, 2023, 05:36:59 PM
https://www.catholicnewsagency.com/news/253583/benedict-xvi-describes-protestantization-of-the-eucharist-in-posthumous-publication

Benedict XVI describes ‘Protestantization’ of the Eucharist in posthumous publication
By Hannah Brockhaus
Rome Newsroom, Feb 8, 2023 / 08:30 am

In a 2018 essay published after his death, Pope Benedict XVI said a Protestant-like understanding of the Eucharist and strong calls for intercommunion are often found together.

Commenting on the current situation of eucharistic life in the Catholic Church, the pope emeritus said: “One process of great impact is the almost complete disappearance of the sacrament of penance.”

There is also the understanding of Communion as merely “a supper,” he added. “In such a situation of a very advanced Protestantization of the understanding of the Eucharist, intercommunion appears natural.”

Benedict’s essay on the Eucharist is part of a series of texts the pope emeritus wrote after his resignation in 2013. The essays, letters, and reflections have been collected into a single volume, “What Is Christianity?,” which was published in Italian last month.

According to Vatican journalist Sandro Magister, Benedict XVI had arranged for the writings to be published after his death.
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http://magister.blogautore.espresso.repubblica.it/2023/02/07/the-catholic-mass-as-no-one-ever-explained-it-before-a-brand-new-work-from-pope-benedict/
07 feb
The Catholic Mass as No One Ever Explained It Before. A Brand New Work From Pope Benedict


Title: Re: Pope Benedict RESIGNING
Post by: grace-land on February 09, 2023, 05:03:36 PM
https://www.ncronline.org/vatican/vatican-news/vatican-touts-very-different-memoir-about-pope-benedict-xvi

Vatican touts a very different memoir about Pope Benedict XVI
NICOLE WINFIELD
ASSOCIATED PRESS
Vatican City — February 9, 2023

Retired Pope Benedict XVI's second secretary came out with a new memoir on Feb. 9, a light, photo-filled daily journal that sharply contrasts with the bombshell tell-all book published last month by the late German pope's main assistant.

"My Days With Benedict XVI" by Archbishop Alfred Xuereb is the latest book to hit Italian bookshelves following Benedict's Dec. 31 death. It was launched Feb. 9 at a semi-official Vatican event alongside another book by a longtime Vatican reporter "The Resignation: I Didn't Flee."

The two new publications served to blunt, in some ways, the negative criticism of Francis that erupted in the weeks after the death of the first "emeritus pope" by refocusing attention on Benedict himself.

Pope Francis recently acknowledged that Benedict's death had been "instrumentalized" by conservatives to accentuate the idea of competing papal camps, a reference to the books, interviews and memos published by Benedict's longtime secretary, Archbishop Georg Ganswein, and some conservative cardinals that were highly critical of the reigning pontiff.

Xuereb was the "second secretary" to Benedict during his 2005-2013 pontificate, and remained on as secretary to Francis for the first months of his papcy. Francis then placed Xuereb in his new Economy Ministry before making him ambassador to Korea and Mongolia, where Francis is expected to visit later this year in the first-ever papal visit.
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Title: Re: Pope Benedict RESIGNING
Post by: grace-land on February 19, 2023, 10:07:04 AM
https://www.catholicnewsagency.com/news/253684/god-creation-and-humanity-the-lost-lectures-of-benedict-xvi-collected-in-new-book

God, creation, and humanity: The ‘lost lectures’ of Benedict XVI collected in new book
By Kevin J. Jones
Denver, Colo., Feb 19, 2023 / 07:00 am

Six lectures of Cardinal Joseph Ratzinger were almost lost forever. But now, they have been collected in a new Ignatius Press book, “The Divine Project: Reflections on Creation and Church.”

“It’s a wonderful summation of what God intends in creating us and redeeming us, in six lectures. It’s just a great find,” Father Joseph Fessio, SJ, president of Ignatius Press, told CNA. “It’s written for students and spoken for students. It’s really quite readable.”

The future Pope Benedict XVI delivered the series of lectures in 1985 at the Bishop of Gurk’s formation house at St. George’s Abbey in Längsee in the southern Austrian state of Carinthia. They were recorded on audio cassettes but the tapes were misplaced for 30 years and forgotten. By chance, they were rediscovered.
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Title: Re: Pope Benedict RESIGNING
Post by: grace-land on February 28, 2023, 10:02:51 AM
https://www.ncregister.com/commentaries/pope-benedict-s-resignation-debate-continues-10-years-on

Pope Benedict’s Resignation: Debate Continues 10 Years On
COMMENTARY: New information can help us to better understand Benedict’s decision.
Father Raymond J. de Souza
Commentaries
February 27, 2023

The 10th anniversary of Pope Benedict XVI’s abdication announcement — Feb. 11, 2013 — passed with little comment, given the attention paid just a month earlier upon his death. But the anniversary of the abdication itself, Feb. 28, offers an opportunity to revisit the decision in light of new information.

On the occasion of the fifth anniversary in 2018, I wrote, given that no one had ever resigned the papacy in serene circumstances, that the default position must be that Benedict was wrong to do so, and the burden of argument lay upon those who considered it the right thing to do.

Benedict himself argued clearly for the validity of his abdication, but unconvincingly for the rightness of the decision. I made that argument here.

Since the fifth anniversary, new information can help us to better understand Benedict’s decision.
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Title: Re: Pope Benedict RESIGNING
Post by: grace-land on March 20, 2023, 05:46:33 PM
https://abcnews.go.com/International/wireStory/pope-benedict-xvis-aide-acknowledges-criticism-memoir-97974014

Pope Benedict XVI's aide acknowledges criticism over memoir
By The Associated Press
March 19, 2023, 2:01 PM

ROME -- The longtime secretary to Pope Benedict XVI acknowledged Sunday that his tell-all memoir, published in the days after Benedict’s death, had been criticized for casting Pope Francis in an unfavorable light, but insisted that some of the polemics were more about anti-Benedict prejudice than anything else.

In some of his first public comments since Benedict’s Dec. 31 death, Archbishop Georg Gaenswein said he remained loyal to Francis and that he was still waiting for the pontiff to give him a new job.

Gaenswein’s future has been the subject of much speculation following Benedict’s death and the publication of “Nothing But the Truth: My Life Beside Pope Benedict XVI.” In the memoir, Gaenswein charted his nearly 30 years working with Benedict, but also settled old scores, revealed palace intrigues and detailed some of the bad blood that accrued during the decade in which Benedict lived as a retired pope alongside Francis.
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Title: Re: Pope Benedict RESIGNING
Post by: grace-land on March 21, 2023, 04:53:37 PM
https://www.catholicnewsagency.com/news/253904/benedict-s-personal-secretary-searches-for-five-cousins-who-are-heirs-of-the-late-pontiff

Benedict’s personal secretary searches for five cousins who are heirs of the late pontiff
By Almudena Martínez-Bordiú
Rome, Italy, Mar 21, 2023 / 14:30 pm

Five German cousins of the late Pope Emeritus Benedict XVI are the direct heirs to his personal property, the pope’s personal secretary, Archbishop Georg Gänswein, told Italian media after a Mass celebrated in Rome on Sunday at Santa Maria Consolatrice parish, Cardinal Ratzinger’s titular church.

Benedict XVI died Dec. 31, 2022.

The archbishop explained that he thought there were two direct heirs. However, he was surprised to learn that there are three more, hitherto unknown. “This has been very interesting for me. I thought he had two relatives, two cousins, but there are five cousins in total,” he said.

“By law I have to write to the cousins who are the closest relatives, and also by law I have to ask them: ‘Do you accept the inheritance or do you not accept it?’” he told various Italian national media.
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Title: Re: Pope Benedict RESIGNING
Post by: grace-land on March 23, 2023, 05:23:53 PM
Hmmm...

https://www.catholicnewsagency.com/news/253913/report-of-pope-benedict-s-secretary-becoming-costa-rica-nuncio-is-speculation-vatican-sources-say
Gänswein to Costa Rica? Report of Benedict’s secretary becoming nuncio is ‘speculation,’ Vatican sources say
By AC Wimmer
CNA Newsroom, Mar 22, 2023 / 08:36 am

Following a report that Pope Francis will appoint Archbishop Georg Gänswein as the Vatican’s next ambassador to Costa Rica, sources inside the Vatican have told CNA Deutsch that the news was “speculation at best.”

The Spanish news site Religión Digital reported Tuesday that Benedict XVI’s longtime private secretary is set to serve as the next apostolic nuncio to the Central American nation.

According to “ecclesiastical sources,” the Holy See contacted the country’s state authorities last week to make the appointment, the online portal said — adding that the current apostolic nuncio, Monsignor Bruno Musaro, is about to turn 75 and is headed for retirement.

Several media outlets picked up news of Gänswein’s transfer to Costa Rica. The Vatican has so far not commented. However, sources told CNA’s German-language partner agency CNA Deutsch that the information was little more than speculation
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Title: Re: Pope Benedict RESIGNING
Post by: grace-land on March 23, 2023, 05:26:48 PM
https://www.catholicnewsagency.com/news/253917/prosecutors-drop-case-of-alleged-cover-up-against-benedict-xvi

Prosecutors drop case of alleged ‘cover up’ against Benedict XVI
By AC Wimmer
CNA Newsroom, Mar 22, 2023 / 16:30 pm

A potential legal case against Pope Benedict XVI over his handling of abuse during his time as archbishop of Munich has been dropped.

The public prosecutor’s office in Munich said on Tuesday it had “discontinued its investigations” against Cardinals Joseph Ratzinger and Friedrich Wetter, reported CNA Deutsch, CNA’s German-language news partner.

The accusations had been investigated in the wake of the Munich abuse report, which raised allegations that “there could be misconduct on the part of Church officials in positions of responsibility.”

Cardinal Ratzinger, who would later become Pope Benedict XVI, served as archbishop of Munich and Freising from 1977 to 1982.
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Title: Re: Pope Benedict RESIGNING
Post by: grace-land on April 16, 2023, 10:32:50 AM
https://www.ncregister.com/news/benedict-xvi-s-the-divine-project

Benedict XVI’s ‘The Divine Project’

BOOK PICK: Remembering Pope Benedict XVI on what would've been his 96th birthday.
John Grondelski
Books
April 16, 2023

THE DIVINE PROJECT
REFLECTIONS ON CREATION AND THE CHURCH
By Joseph Cardinal Ratzinger (Pope Benedict XVI)
Ignatius Press, 2022
177 pages, $18.95

To order: ewtnrc.com

After John Paul II died, and as his canonization process ensued, several lost talks and retreats he delivered during his 32 years of priesthood in Poland were discovered and published.

Similarly, this book contains five lectures then-Cardinal Ratzinger gave in 1985 in Austria.

Though they were known and partially published, were they complete?

The discovery in an attic of someone’s recording of them allowed their full texts to be transcribed.

John Paul once said, around the time of his Wednesday audiences on the theology of the body, that if man wants to understand himself, he needs to return to the first pages of Genesis.

Cardinal Ratzinger’s lectures focus on the theology of creation and of the Church. The title and the thread holding creation and Church together is the question, “What is man?”
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Title: Re: Pope Benedict RESIGNING
Post by: grace-land on May 27, 2023, 11:49:59 AM
https://www.detroitcatholic.com/news/german-archbishop-georg-g%C3%A4nswein-hopes-people-learn-the-real-truth-about-benedict-xvi

German Archbishop Georg Gänswein hopes people learn the 'real truth' about Benedict XVI
PAULINA GUZIK
May 26, 2023

WARSAW, Poland (OSV News) ─ German Archbishop Georg Gänswein, former personal secretary to the late Pope Benedict XVI, told OSV News in a recent interview that he hopes those who read his new memoir "will recognize the real face or the real truth about the person but also the truth about what Benedict XVI and also Cardinal Ratzinger have done."

Archbishop Gänswein was in Poland recently promoting his book "Nothing but the Truth," which details his time as personal secretary to Cardinal Joseph Ratzinger during his last two years as prefect of the Congregation of the Doctrine of Faith, to Pope Benedict XVI during the eight years he was in pontiff, and, finally, the decade when Pope Benedict was pope emeritus.

As he tours, Archbishop Gänswein is simultaneously awaiting Pope Francis' decision on what the archbishop's next position will be. He expected the decision to be communicated within the next few days.

"I hope Pope Francis will give me the opportunity to talk to him to hear (in person) what he has decided," Archbishop Gänswein told OSV News May 23. "I am calm. I can wait. I also have the patience to wait."
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Title: Re: Pope Benedict RESIGNING
Post by: grace-land on June 02, 2023, 04:26:27 PM
https://www.catholicnewsagency.com/news/254472/report-ganswein-ordered-to-leave-vatican-return-to-home-diocese-without-new-role

Report: Gänswein ordered to leave Vatican, return to home diocese without new role
By AC Wimmer
CNA Newsroom, Jun 2, 2023 / 06:34 am

According to a German newspaper report, Pope Francis ordered Archbishop Georg Gänswein to leave the Vatican and return to Germany by the end of June.

The longtime private secretary of Pope Benedict XVI has been told to return to his home diocese of Freiburg in southwest Germany but has not been given any role or assignment, the Welt newspaper reported on Friday.

According to CNA Deutsch, CNA’s German-language partner agency, the report claims Pope Francis informed the 66-year-old Gänswein of his decision during a private audience on May 19.

Gänswein had not responded to a request by CNA Deutsch by the time of publication, and the Vatican has not issued any communication on the matter.
 ::snipping3::
Gänswein is expected in Germany later this week: He is scheduled to preside over Mass on Sunday, June 4, for an annual pilgrimage to the Cistercian monastery of Stiepel near Bochum, in Western Germany.


Title: Re: Pope Benedict RESIGNING
Post by: grace-land on June 04, 2023, 04:22:52 PM
https://www.vaticannews.va/en/pope/news/2023-06/cardinal-herranz-publishes-his-memoirs-benedict-xvi-and-francis.html

Cardinal Herranz publishes his memoirs on Benedict XVI and Francis
04 June 2023, 08:00

Cardinal Julián Herranz publishes his memoirs regarding Benedict XVI and Francis in his new book, "Two Popes," saying "they have inspired me with their virtues and honoured me with their personal friendship." Pope Francis wrote the preface in which he thanks the Cardinal for his service to the Church.
By Johan Pacheco

“Dos Papa” (Two Popes) features the memoirs of Spanish Cardinal Julián Herranz Casado and his experience in the service of Benedict XVI and Francis, offering his own testimony of the Church's journey in recent decades. With love for Mother Church and the Holy Father, Cardinal Herranz writes about the moments of splendour and the challenges faced by the successor of Peter.

Cardinal Julián Herranz is President emeritus of the Pontifical Council for Legislative Texts and President emeritus of the Disciplinary Commission of the Roman Curia.
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Title: Re: Pope Benedict RESIGNING
Post by: grace-land on June 15, 2023, 06:40:25 PM
https://www.vaticannews.va/en/pope/news/2023-06/buddhist-monks-thailand-meeting-interreligious-dialogue-pope.html

Thai Buddhists reaffirm friendship and fraternity with Catholic Church
15 June 2023, 12:12

A Buddhist Delegation from Thailand meets with representatives of the Dicastery for Interreligious Dialogue in the Vatican. Having been due to meet with the Pope who is recovering from surgery but will be discharged tomorrow, the delegation leave him a letter of prayers and well-wishes.
By Francesca Merlo

One minute of silent reflection “to really bring everyone here and now” opened the meeting between a delegation of Buddhist monks, and their entourage, and representatives of the Dicastery for Interreligious Dialogue at the Augustinianum on Thursday 15 June. 

The delegation had been due to meet with Pope Francis during their two-day visit to the Vatican, but due to the Holy Father’s ongoing recovery in Hospital, they wrote him a letter, signed by the Venerable Somdet Phra Mahathirachan, Abbot of the Royal Temple of Wat Phra Cetuphon, instead.
 ::snipping3::
The delegation members recount their activities in the Vatican, including having prayed for peace and having payed a visit to the tomb of the late Pope Benedict XVI.

(https://www.vaticannews.va/content/dam/vaticannews/multimedia/2023/06/15/Senza-titolo-1.png/_jcr_content/renditions/cq5dam.thumbnail.cropped.750.422.png)
Buddhist delegation prays at the tomb of the late Benedict XVI
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Title: Re: Pope Benedict RESIGNING
Post by: grace-land on June 15, 2023, 06:46:37 PM
https://www.catholicnewsagency.com/news/254573/vatican-ganswein-to-return-to-home-diocese-from-july

Vatican: Gänswein to return to home diocese in July
By Hannah Brockhaus, AC Wimmer
Rome Newsroom, Jun 15, 2023 / 04:31 am

The Vatican confirmed Thursday that Pope Francis has asked Archbishop Georg Gänswein to return to Germany as of July 1.

The longtime private secretary of Pope Benedict XVI has been told to return to his home diocese of Freiburg in southwest Germany “for the time being,” according to a brief statement June 15.

The Vatican also said Gänswein’s role as prefect of the Papal Household concluded on Feb. 28. It did not indicate that he had been given any new assignment.

The news about the 66-year-old Gänswein was first reported by a German newspaper in early June.
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Title: Re: Pope Benedict RESIGNING
Post by: grace-land on June 20, 2023, 06:30:11 PM
https://www.catholicnewsagency.com/news/254619/pectoral-cross-of-benedict-xvi-stolen-from-bavarian-church

Pectoral cross of Benedict XVI stolen from Bavarian church
By AC Wimmer
CNA Newsroom, Jun 20, 2023 / 12:30 pm

A pectoral cross bequeathed by the late Pope Benedict XVI to a parish in his native Bavaria has been stolen from the church where it was on display.

According to CNA Deutsch, CNA’s German-language partner news agency, unknown perpetrators broke open a display case on the wall of St. Oswald’s Church in the city of Traunstein during daylight hours Monday.

Police said cash was also stolen from the cash register of a literature stand in the church.

The value of the cross to the Catholic Church is “not quantifiable,” the police said. Authorities are asking anyone who saw anyone suspicious near St. Oswald’s on Monday or has any other information to come forward. The Traunstein district attorney’s office is leading the investigation.
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Title: Re: Pope Benedict RESIGNING
Post by: grace-land on October 25, 2023, 07:00:08 PM
https://www.ncregister.com/features/a-beautiful-glimpse-into-the-life-of-pope-benedict

A Beautiful Glimpse Into the Life of Pope Benedict
BOOK PICK: Archbishop Gänswein’s new book is both a biography of Joseph Ratzinger and partial autobiography of the papal secretary, highlighting friendship centered in Christ.
John Clark
October 24, 2023

Who Believes Is Not Alone
My Life Beside Benedict XVI
By Georg Gänswein
With Saverio Gaeta
St. Augustine’s Press, 2023
274 pages, $24
To order: staugustine.net

Joseph Ratzinger/Pope Benedict XVI lived a fascinating and exceptional life. Millions of faithful Catholics not only have a desire to honestly know Joseph Ratzinger better, but have legitimate wonders surrounding the events of his final decades, some of which have been largely veiled until now — until this book by Archbishop Georg Gänswein.

(The book was first published earlier this year in Italian under the somewhat more provocative main title Nient’altro che la Verità [Nothing But the Truth], but St. Augustine’s Press has translated it to English with a new title.)

In early 2003, Cardinal Ratzinger asked Msgr. Georg Gänswein to be his personal secretary. What was intended to be a temporary assignment turned out to be a 20-year position, as Gänswein faithfully served Joseph Ratzinger from 2003, through his papacy, and through his retirement until his final moment on earth on the last day of 2022.

As co-author Saverio Gaeta writes in the book’s postscript, “No one knew and supported Benedict XVI throughout the years of his pontificate and retirement more than Archbishop Georg Gänswein.”
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Title: Re: Pope Benedict RESIGNING
Post by: grace-land on November 03, 2023, 09:11:51 AM
 ::MonkeyAngel::
Video, with English commentary, at the link...

https://www.vaticannews.va/en/pope/news/2023-11/pope-offers-mass-for-souls-of-pope-benedict-deceased-prelates.html
Pope offers Mass for souls of Benedict XVI, deceased prelates
03 November 2023, 10:19

Pope Francis on Friday offered the Sacrifice of the Mass for the repose of Pope Benedict XVI and of Cardinals and Bishops who have died over the course of the past year.
By Christopher Wells

One day after the Commemoration of All the Faithful Departed, Pope Francis presided at Holy Mass in suffrage for the souls of Benedict XVI and more than 150 Cardinals, Archbishops, and Bishops who have died in the course of the past year.

In his homily, Pope Francis recalled his predecessor’s teaching that “faith is not primarily an idea to be understood or a moral precept, but a person to be encountered. That person is Jesus Christ, whose heart beats with love for us, whose eyes look with pity on our suffering.”
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https://www.catholicnewsagency.com/news/255906/pope-francis-like-benedict-xvi-be-humble-laborers-for-the-church
Pope Francis: Like Benedict XVI, be ‘humble laborers’ for the Church
By Hannah Brockhaus
Vatican City, Nov 3, 2023 / 07:05 am

https://cruxnow.com/vatican/2023/11/pope-celebrates-memorial-for-benedict-xvi-pell-and-other-departed-prelates
Pope celebrates memorial for Benedict XVI, Pell, and other departed prelates
By Elise Ann Allen
Nov 3, 2023

https://www.vatican.va/content/francesco/en/homilies/2023.index.html
Homilies 2023
Eucharistic Celebration in memory of the late Supreme Pontiff Benedict XVI, and the Cardinals and Bishops deceased during the year (3 November 2023)



Title: Re: Pope Benedict RESIGNING
Post by: grace-land on November 03, 2023, 07:14:35 PM
https://www.vaticannews.va/en/vatican-city/news/2023-11/ratzinger-prize-2023-goes-to-a-theologians-and-philosophers.html

Ratzinger Prize 2023 goes to two Spanish theologians and philosophers
03 November 2023, 14:07

Two Spanish professors and scholars will be honoured with the Joseph Ratzinger-Benedict XVI Prize 2023 at the award ceremony on 30 November in the Vatican.
By Vatican News

The Ratzinger Prize 2023 has been awarded to the Spanish philosophers and theologians Pablo Blanco Sarto and Francesc Torralba Roselló.

Presenting to them the honour will be Vatican Secretary of State, Cardinal Pietro Parolin, on 30 November in the Sala Regia of the Vatican's Apostolic Palace. The ceremony will begin at 5 pm Rome time and will feature reflections on the legacy of Joseph Ratzinger - Benedict XVI - almost a year after his death.

In the morning, at 8:15 am, a special Mass will be celebrated in the Vatican Grottoes in memory of the Pope Emeritus, who passed away on 31 December 2022.

In addition, on the afternoon of 29 November, starting at 5 pm, Rome's Pontifical Gregorian University will host a study conference in English on the subject.
 ::snipping3::


Title: Re: Pope Benedict RESIGNING
Post by: grace-land on November 13, 2023, 12:48:16 PM
https://www.vaticannews.va/en/vatican-city/news/2023-11/vatican-mater-ecclesiae-monastery-contemplative-nuns-statement.html

Vatican's Mater Ecclesiae Monastery becomes home for contemplative nuns
13 November 2023, 12:07

Pope Francis asks a community of Argentinian Benedictine nuns to take up residence in the Vatican's Mater Ecclesiae Monastery, where Pope Emeritus Benedict XVI lived for around 10 years after his resignation in 2013.
By Vatican News

The Mater Ecclesiae Monastery in the heart of the Vatican Gardens that was the "home" of the Pope Emeritus, Benedict XVI, for almost ten years, is to resume its original purpose.

Pope Francis has asked that it once again serve as the residence for contemplative orders "to support the Holy Father in his daily care for the whole Church, through the ministry of prayer, adoration, praise, and reparation: a praying presence in silence and solitude."

A statement released by the Holy See Press Office on Monday, 13 November, said Pope Francis announced this decision in a handwritten letter dated 1 October of this year.
 ::snipping3::

https://www.catholicnewsagency.com/news/255992/after-benedict-xvi-s-death-vatican-monastery-to-be-home-to-benedictine-nuns
After Benedict XVI’s death, Vatican monastery to be home to Benedictine nuns
By Hannah Brockhaus
Vatican City, Nov 13, 2023 / 07:02 am


Title: Re: Pope Benedict RESIGNING
Post by: grace-land on December 01, 2023, 05:03:55 PM
https://www.vaticannews.va/en/vatican-city/news/2023-12/parolin-benedict-xvi-s-legacy-will-bear-fruit-for-the-church.html

Cardinal Parolin: Benedict XVI’s legacy will bear fruit for the Church
01 December 2023, 13:46

As Cardinal Secretary of State Pietro Parolin presents this year’s Ratzinger Prizes to theologian Pablo Blanco Sarto and philosopher Francesc Torralba, he recalls the importance of Pope Benedict XVI's thought concerning the relationship between faith and reason.
By Michele Raviart

An attitude of “flying high with the two open wings of reason and faith, albeit always with humility, effort, and perseverance”: This is the legacy, “alive and set to bear fruit in the future journey of the Church,” that Benedict XVI leaves behind a little less than a year after his death.

Cardinal Secretary of State Pietro Parolin made the remarks during the presentation of the 2023 Ratzinger Prize, the first ceremony for the Prize since the death of its namesake. Cardinal Parolin described the former Pope as “a pastor and teacher of faith” and “a luminous and courageous example of dialogue.” Pope Benedict’s Magisterium, the Cardinal said, is “characterized by an awareness of the cultural and spiritual situation of the world,” and of the tensions between peoples and between man and creation.
 ::snipping3::

https://www.catholicnewsagency.com/news/256161/2023-ratzinger-prize-reflects-on-theological-legacy-of-late-pope-benedict-xvi
2023 Ratzinger Prize reflects on theological legacy of late Pope Benedict XVI
By Matthew Santucci
Rome Newsroom, Dec 1, 2023 / 15:20 pm


Title: Re: Pope Benedict RESIGNING
Post by: grace-land on December 27, 2023, 05:09:54 PM
https://www.catholicnewsagency.com/news/256381/vatican-to-publish-private-homilies-of-pope-benedict-xvi

Vatican to publish private homilies of Pope Benedict XVI
By Daniel Payne
CNA Staff, Dec 27, 2023 / 13:00 pm

The Vatican will publish the previously uncirculated “private” homilies of the late Pope Benedict XVI in the coming year, the Holy See has announced.

The Vatican Publishing House said Dec. 23 that it intends to release “a book of some 130 homilies given by the late Pope Benedict XVI at private Sunday Masses,” according to Catholic News Service (CNS).

The homilies comprise “30 given while [Benedict] was pope and more than 100 given to members of his household once he retired,” CNS reported.

The homilies were reportedly transcribed by members of Memores Domini, a lay association that lived with Benedict, the news service said. Four female members of the organization worked in Benedict XVI’s papal household and also moved with him to the Mater Ecclesiae Monastery after his retirement.

Neither the Vatican nor the Joseph Ratzinger-Benedict XVI Vatican Foundation, who also announced the publication of the homilies last week, gave a date for when the writings would be fully published.

The Vatican City newspaper L’Osservatore Romano and the German newspaper Die Welt published the first of the homilies earlier this month.
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Title: Re: Pope Benedict RESIGNING
Post by: grace-land on December 29, 2023, 05:10:24 PM
https://www.catholicnewsagency.com/news/256398/benedict-trusted-francis-but-he-was-bitterly-disappointed-biographer-says-in-new-interview

‘Benedict trusted Francis. But he was bitterly disappointed,’ biographer says in new interview
By AC Wimmer
CNA Newsroom, Dec 29, 2023 / 10:57 am

On the eve of the first anniversary of Pope Benedict XVI’s death, his biographer, Peter Seewald, raised serious concerns about how Pope Francis is managing the legacy of his predecessor.

“Benedict trusted Francis. But he was bitterly disappointed several times,” Seewald said in an interview published Dec. 27.

Pope Francis may have written “nice letters” to his predecessor and described him as a “great pope,” Seewald told the New Daily Compass. However, in practice, he said, he has “erased much of what was precious and dear to Ratzinger.”

“If you really speak of a ‘great pope’ out of conviction, shouldn’t you do everything you can to cultivate his legacy? Just as Benedict XVI did with regard to John Paul II? As we can see today, Pope Francis has, in fact, done very little to remain in continuity with his predecessors,” Seewald said.

Instead, the South American and Jesuit pope wanted to erase much of “what was dear to Ratzinger,” according to the Benedict biographer.

‘Stabbed in the heart’

Seewald pointed to the tight restrictions against the Traditional Latin Mass by Pope Francis, reversing Benedict XVI’s 2007 apostolic letter Summorum Pontificum, which acknowledged the right of all priests to say Mass using the Roman Missal of 1962, which is in Latin.
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https://newdailycompass.com/en/seewald-francis-wants-to-erase-benedict-xvis-legacy
INTERVIEW
Seewald: Francis wants to erase Benedict XVI's legacy
Gay couples, Latin Mass, sexual abuse, purging of the men most closely associated with Benedict, the appointment of Fernández: Pope Francis has done everything he could to destroy what his predecessor had built. One year after the death of Benedict XVI, his biographer and friend Peter Seewald speaks out.
Nico Spuntoni
27_12_2023


Title: Re: Pope Benedict RESIGNING
Post by: grace-land on December 29, 2023, 05:17:11 PM
https://www.catholicnewsagency.com/news/256405/ewtn-to-air-conference-on-benedict-xvi-one-year-after-his-death

EWTN to air conference on Pope Benedict XVI one year after his death
By Matthew Santucci
Rome Newsroom, Dec 29, 2023 / 16:30 pm

One year after the death of Pope Benedict XVI, scholars, experts, and friends of the late pontiff will meet in Rome on Dec. 30–31 in the Benedict XVI Hall of the Campo Santo Teutonico at the Vatican to discuss his legacy.

EWTN, the Fundatio Christiana Virtus Association, and the Joseph Ratzinger-Benedict XVI Vatican Foundation have partnered to hold the conference, which will air on EWTN throughout the day on Dec. 31 beginning at 6:30 a.m. ET (see schedule below).

Serving as moderators will be Father Vincent Twomey and Father Federico Lombardi, former director of the Holy See Press Office, who will discuss the topic “Benedict XVI, Memory and Legacy.”

Cardinal Gerhard Ludwig Müller and Matthew Bunson, EWTN vice president and editorial director, will later discuss “The Center of Benedict XVI’s Theology: Jesus Christ.”
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Title: Re: Pope Benedict RESIGNING
Post by: grace-land on December 30, 2023, 01:40:43 PM
 ::MonkeyAngel::
https://www.vaticannews.va/en/vatican-city/news/2023-12/pope-benedict-xvi-death-anniversary-federico-lombardi.html
Fr. Lombardi: Pope Benedict XVI was ‘a master and witness of faith’
30 December 2023, 17:52

One year on from Pope Benedict XVI’s death, Fr. Federico Lombardi, his former papal spokesman, reflects on the legacy and witness of faith of the late Pope.
By Federico Lombardi, SJ

A year after the departure of Pope Benedict XVI, it is right and natural to consider his legacy.

Is he a figure to be entrusted mainly to the masters of reading the past, or is he a figure who continues to challenge all of us today, precisely in these dramatic times we are living?

That he is a master of the faith, there is no doubt. We will not soon tire of rereading his "Introduction to Christianity" and his "Jesus of Nazareth" trilogy; theologians will be able to delve into his Opera Omnia for a long time, continuing to draw suggestions and guidelines for their reflection and research.

That he is also an eminent witness to life in faith - and to Christian faith in eternal life - is also entirely clear to those who have listened to him in his homilies and his spiritual magisterium, as well as to those who have been able to know him closely, following his long inner journey up to his encounter with God.

What I would now like to observe, however, is that Joseph Ratzinger continues to be a precious companion even for those who are living with participation and passion the affairs of life and human history on this earth, with all the dramatic questions that today it brings with it.
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The last Pope who participated in the entire Council and lived it from within leaves us thus a testimony of its enduring relevance and encourages us to continue to develop its seeds and consequences without fear, reformulating the same mission of the Church in the world, engaging reason and faith to collaborate for the good and salvation of humanity and the world.

His gaze turns towards the future in hope. The service of Benedict XVI continues in the deepest movement of the Church of the Lord, led by Pope Francis and his successors.

https://www.ncregister.com/commentaries/a-year-without-benedict
A Year Without Benedict
A NOTE FROM THE PUBLISHER: His words often had a way of making the vast mystery of the God-Man understandable, always presenting Jesus in his fullness, from his simple birth to his suffering, death and resurrection.
Michael Warsaw | Publisher's Note | December 30, 2023


Title: Re: Pope Benedict RESIGNING
Post by: grace-land on December 31, 2023, 10:57:12 AM
https://www.vaticannews.va/en/pope/news/2023-12/may-benedict-xvi-bless-us-and-accompany-us.html

Pope Francis: 'May Benedict XVI bless us and accompany us'
31 December 2023, 13:33

In his greetings during the Sunday Angelus, Pope Francis recalled our affection, gratitude, and admiration for Benedict XVI who died one year ago, praying that he may bless us and accompany us from Heaven.
By Tiziana Campisi and Thaddeus Jones

“A year ago, Pope Benedict XVI ended his early journey, after having lovingly and wisely served the Church. We feel so much affection, gratitude and admiration for him. May he bless us and accompany us from Heaven. A round of applause for Benedict XVI!”

Pope Francis offered those words at the Sunday Angelus when remembering Pope Benedict XVI,  the 265th Pope, who died one year ago on this day of 31 December in 2022.

A Mass of suffrage was celebrated earlier in the morning at the Vatican, in St. Peter's Basilica, at the Altar of the Chair. Archbishop Georg Gänswein, Joseph Ratzinger's secretary from 2003 until the final days of his life, presided over the celebration. In his homily, Archbishop Gänswein described Benedict XVI's "shining example," and he expressed gratitude to God "for the gift of his life, the richness of his magisterium, the depth of his theology" of this "'simple and humble worker in the vineyard of the Lord.'"

Homily of Archbishop Ganswein

In his homily, Archbishop Ganswein recalled how just one year ago Benedict XVI called "Christmas, the most beautiful day of the year!" with a sense of wonder and celebrated with deep faith, joy and prayer. "Today, the Feast of the Holy Family marks the first anniversary of his return to the Father's house, where - as we hope and pray - he may forever contemplate the great mystery of Christmas."
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https://www.catholicnewsagency.com/news/256387/4-kernels-of-wisdom-from-pope-benedict-xvi-s-last-message-to-the-world
4 kernels of wisdom from Pope Benedict XVI’s last message to the world
By Isabel Barry
Chicago, Ill., Dec 31, 2023 / 08:00 am


Title: Re: Pope Benedict RESIGNING
Post by: grace-land on December 31, 2023, 01:37:12 PM
https://www.wral.com/story/pope-recalls-benedict-xvis-love-and-wisdom-on-anniversary-of-death-as-secretary-reflects-on-legacy/21216229/

Pope recalls Benedict XVI's love and wisdom on anniversary of death, as secretary reflects on legacy
Posted 11:00 a.m. Today - Updated 10:58 a.m. Today

VATICAN CITY (AP) — Tributes were paid Sunday on the first anniversary of the death of Pope Benedict XVI, with Pope Francis praising his love and wisdom and Benedict's private secretary expressing hope he might one day be declared a saint.

Benedict, the first pope to retire in six centuries, died last Dec. 31 at the age of 95 in the Vatican monastery where he spent 10 years as a pope emeritus. He is buried in the grottoes underneath St. Peter’s Basilica.

Speaking at the end of his weekly noon blessing, Francis said the faithful feel “so much love, so much gratitude, so much admiration” for Benedict. He praised the “love and wisdom” with which Benedict guided the church and asked for a round of applause from the pilgrims and tourists gathered in St. Peter’s Square.

Earlier in the day, Benedict's longtime secretary, Archbishop Georg Gaenswein, celebrated a special Mass in the basilica and then participated in an anniversary event to reflect on Benedict’s legacy.

Speaking on the sidelines, Gaenswein acknowledged some of the polemics that surrounded Benedict's decade-long retirement alongside Francis in the Vatican, but said they would be forgotten in favor of the substance of his ministry and his final words: “Lord, I love you.”

History, Gaenswein said, would judge Benedict as a “great theologian, a very simple person and a man of deep faith.”
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Video at the limk below--
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jLFouWsIC6M
From the Vatican | Holy Mass for Pope Benedict XVI on the First Anniversary of His Passing | 2023
EWTN


Title: Re: Pope Benedict RESIGNING
Post by: grace-land on December 31, 2023, 01:42:57 PM
Video at the link...

https://www.reuters.com/world/europe/benedict-would-have-banned-same-sex-blessings-aide-says-anniversary-2023-12-31/
Benedict would have banned same-sex blessings, aide says on anniversary
By Philip Pullella
December 31, 20231:54 PM CST Updated 35 min ago

VATICAN CITY, Dec 31 (Reuters) - The Vatican marked the first anniversary on Sunday of the death of Pope Benedict XVI, with one of his closest aides saying he never would have approved a recent declaration allowing Catholic priests to bless same-sex couples.

Cardinal Gerhard Mueller, who was the Church's doctrinal chief under Benedict, and Archbishop Georg Gaenswein, who was Benedict's private secretary, both German, were two headliners at an event marking the anniversary and organised by the conservative U.S.-based Catholic television network EWTN.

"It never would have happened (under Benedict) because it was so ambiguous," Mueller said on the sidelines of the event when asked by Reuters about the landmark declaration issued on Dec. 18.
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Title: Re: Pope Benedict RESIGNING
Post by: grace-land on January 02, 2024, 06:30:12 PM
https://www.catholicnewsagency.com/news/256417/conference-on-pope-benedict-s-death-legacy-defined-by-love-of-christ-the-eucharist

Conference on anniversary of Benedict’s death focuses on legacy defined by love of Christ
By Matthew Santucci
Rome Newsroom, Jan 2, 2024 / 11:48 am
(https://www.catholicnewsagency.com/storage/image/ris2264.jpg?w=220&h=165)
Archbishop Georg Gänswein celebrates a Mass in St. Peter’s Basilica on Dec. 31, 2023, to commemorate the one-year anniversary of the death of Pope Benedict XVI. | Credit: Vatican Media

Friends, scholars, and former colleagues of Pope Benedict XVI gathered in the Campo Santo Teutonico in Vatican City from Dec. 30–31 for a two-day conference to reflect on the late pope’s life and rich theological legacy on the occasion of the one-year anniversary of his death.

Touching upon a wide range of themes, from his early life to his extensive theological corpus that covered the virtues of hope and love, the liturgy, and the life of Christ, the common thread uniting his work and life was a deep Christocentrism, which was made tangible in the Eucharist.

“When he spoke his final words ‘Lord, I love Thee’ at the end of his life, he said it all. He was expressing the fact that this love is stronger than death and that he remained in this love even in the moment of death,” Father Ralph Weimann said to the attendees gathered together for his lecture titled “Death and Eternal Life — Benedict XVI.”
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Title: Re: Pope Benedict RESIGNING
Post by: grace-land on January 03, 2024, 04:58:51 PM
Videos at the link...

https://www.ncregister.com/news/benedict-xvi-friends-and-scholars-recall-his-life-legacy-and-teaching
Benedict XVI: Friends and Scholars Recall His Life, Legacy and Teaching

His friendship with Christ, love for truth, and ‘remarkable’ ability to communicate were just some of the late pontiff’s qualities remembered at a two-day Rome conference on the first anniversary of his death.
Edward Pentin Vatican January 2, 2024

VATICAN CITY — Pope Benedict XVI’s legacy “will last, bear fruit and nourish the spiritual lives of many, many people, especially the young,” his former personal secretary has predicted.

Speaking to the Register on the sidelines of a Rome conference celebrating Joseph Ratzinger’s life and pontificate one year after his death, Archbishop Georg Gänswein said, “The legacy of Pope Benedict will be discovered, it will emerge, because Benedict was not just a very real and truthful person, nor someone who tried to draw attention to himself, but because he was someone who tried to serve God, love the people of the Church, and love the truth.”

“That was, for him, a great and very important mission of his life and his theology, both as cardinal and as Pope,” Archbishop Gänswein added.

The Dec. 30-31 conference, co-hosted by EWTN, the Fundatio Christiana Virtus, and the Vatican Joseph Ratzinger-Benedict XVI foundation, examined the “life, teaching and legacy” of the late pope, drawing on scholars, experts, some of his friends. It took place at the Campo Santo Teutonico within the Vatican walls.
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Title: Re: Pope Benedict RESIGNING
Post by: grace-land on January 23, 2024, 10:06:34 AM
https://cruxnow.com/vatican/2024/01/benedicts-top-aide-says-gay-lobby-vatican-bank-had-nothing-to-do-with-resignation

Benedict’s top aide says ‘gay lobby,’ Vatican bank had nothing to do with resignation
By Elise Ann Allen
Jan 9, 2024

ROME – Pope Benedict XVI’s longtime private secretary, German Archbishop Georg Gänswein, spent the Feast of the Epiphany at a small parish in northern Italy, telling parishioners that Benedict was a man of prayer and debunking conspiracies behind his historic resignation.

Speaking to churchgoers at Sacred Heart Parish in Carnovali, Bergamo, on the Jan. 6 feast of the Epiphany, Gänswein described the late pontiff, who died on Dec. 31 of last year at the age of 94, as someone “whose vocation was that of a university professor and not an ecclesiastical career.”

“He was not born to exercise power,” Gänswein said, but insisted that once elected and faced with troubling issues in the church such as the pedophilia scandals, “He had a strong sense of responsibility: already as cardinal he saw that the big problem of the Church were not the persecutions or attacks from outside, but the filth that was produced inside.”

Awareness of this “cost him a lot,” Gänswein said, saying, “We never saw him cry because he was very controlled and dominated his emotions, but he suffered.”
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