Gratitude

We are grateful that God has given us Pope Benedict XVI. He has done much in the eight years to bring balance back to the Church in both liturgy and in theology. He was also willing to make the unpopular decisions in the face of pressure from within the Church and without... decisions for the good of the Church and the Gospel of Christ.

Joseph Ratzinger expressed willingness to abandon himself to God by assenting to serve in demanding roles time and again instead of pursuing his favorite activities of quiet study, prayer and writing. He still managed to do some writing in his hectic schedule as Pope, often with a cat as companion.

Yet writing often had to take a secondary priority to the demanding daily duties of the Pontificate. Now at age 85, he is obedient to the advancing years' toll on his body and mind. Pope Benedict XVI knows it is time for another to continue the task of leading Christ's disciples. Yet he shall continue to serve us in prayer and work until God calls him home.

We shall miss you, Pope Benedict XVI: may you enjoy your well-earned retirement with the joy of music and your beloved cats.