IN THE wake of Pope Benedict XVI’s decision to step down, many were startled and lamented the resignation of the pontiff as the supreme leader of the Roman Catholic Church.
Speaking in Latin in a meeting with Vatican cardinals, the pope revealed his decision “of great importance for the life of the church.”
“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.”
The Pope said he wishes to continue to serve the Catholic Church “through a life dedicated to prayer.”
Being only the second pontiff to leave his post (after Pope Gregory XII in 1415), Pope Benedict XVI’s almost unprecedented resignation came as a complete surprise to everyone, even to his closest aides.
According to Vatican spokesman Federico Lombardi, Pope Benedict made his decision over the last few months. He said the pope will still honor his commitments until his last day, on February 28.
Meanwhile, Filipinos expressed gratitude to Pope Benedict.
After all, it was during his term when the country was given its second saint, through the canonization of St. Pedro Calungod.
“Pope Benedict XVI’s decision, historic as it is, is in keeping with humility and pastoral approach he has placed at the core of his service as Pope. It is also an act of supreme faith in the institution he has headed, and the faith he has proclaimed to the world. We pause in human sympathy with Pope Benedict XVI in his acknowledgment of the great physical burden of his office,” Presidential Spokesperson Edwin Lacierda said in a statement on Monday.
Lacierda also recalled the “prayers and comforting words” the Pope has dedicated to Filipinos during times of calamities.
Unfortunately, Pope Benedict’s eight-year tenure included many suits, alleging sexual abuse by priests. While the 85-year-old pontiff attributed age and sickness for his resignation, some suspect that it could also be the pressing issues involving the Church.
The Roman Catholic Church is expected to have a new leader by Easter, at the end of March. 120 cardinals worldwide are set to gather for a conclave in Rome, to name Pope Benedict XVI’s successor.
There are several papal contenders in the wings, including Manila Archbishop Luis Antonio Cardinal Tagle, who is also expected to participate in the conclave next month.
There is a need for divine intervention. The resignation of Pope Benedict XVI grants a unique opportunity for a renewal of Church leadership — one that will rise to become worthy of meeting the challenges present in today’s world.
(AJPress)
