Pope Benedict XVI to Resign From Papal Office
The Pontiff will be the first pope to resign in nearly 600 years. We want to know what people in Algonquin and Lake in the Hills would like to see in the next pope. What sort of policies and traits do you want him to have?
Pope Benedict XVI announced his resignation from the papal office effective Feb. 28, The Vatican Today reports.
The Pontiff made the announcement early this morning, citing his age and health concerns as the primary reason for leaving the position.
“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,” Pope Bendict XVI said.
Read and listen to Pope Benedict XVI’s announcement on the Vatican’s website.
Pope Benedict XVI, formerly known as Cardinal Joseph Ratzinger, was elected as the successor to Pope John Paul II in April of 2005.
He will be the first pope to resign in nearly 600 years. Pope Gregory XII stepped down in 1415 “in a deal to end the Great Western Schism” the Associated Press reports.
A new pope will likely be elected next month, the AP reports.
What do you think of Pope Benedict XVI's decision to resign from the papal office? What sort of person do you hope becomes the next pope? Tell us in the comments section. Or write a post about your thoughts for our Local Voices section.
Dan Arenov
3:39 pm on Monday, February 11, 2013
I've got a bet on either the guy from Africa or the guy from Central America winning the contest. Yes, it's a political contest.
My buddy says it's going to be an EYE-talian. I told him that there's not much 'converting' to do in Europe, unless somebody thinks that Pope will convert Muslims to be Catholics...much more opportunity for the church to grow in the third world countries. We shall 'SEE'.
Dan Arenov
3:42 pm on Monday, February 11, 2013
Oh...and i've set the 'over/under' on the age to be 69.
(sigh) i miss football season already.