If You Love Pope Benedict XVI, Set Him Free

If You Love Pope Benedict XVI, Set Him Free February 11, 2013

And so we woke up this morning to the news that Pope Benedict XVI is resigning his post as Captain of the Barque of Saint Peter. The best reaction I’ve seen so far comes from Fr. James Martin, SJ,

The Holy Father’s resignation is a selfless and noble act done for the good of the Church that he has loved and served for decades.

The Holy Fathers’ tweet at the time he announced his resignation is a truthful prayer,

“We must trust in the mighty power of God’s mercy. We are all sinners, but His grace transforms us and makes us new.”

Amen. He’s recollected.  And he is a good man, who has taught, and continues to teach, us much.

For all of the official announcements and such, I’ll direct you to Deacon Greg Kandra’s place.  Be sure also to check in with Timothy Cardinal Dolan for his thoughts as well. All the major papers/web sites, like the New York Times, are carrying the news too. And, of course, the Anchoress is keeping her finger on the news and updating her post accordingly.

As for me, I am happy to be living in this time of renewal in the Church. I am happy that My Pope puts Christ and His Church ahead of himself. I am happy that the decision is not a rash one, but one made at a measured pace and after considerable, nay, constant, prayer.

Prayers like this one are called for now,

Let nothing disturb you,
Let nothing frighten you,
All things are passing away:
God never changes.
Patience obtains all things
Whoever has God lacks nothing;
God alone suffices.

— St. Teresa of Avila

Yes. We’re in good hands.

Hear my cry, O God,
listen to my prayer;
from the end of the earth I call to thee,
when my heart is faint.
Lead thou me
to the rock that is higher than I;
for thou art my refuge,
a strong tower against the enemy.

Let me dwell in thy tent for ever!
Oh to be safe under the shelter of thy wings! Selah
For thou, O God, hast heard my vows,
thou hast given me the heritage of those who fear thy name.

Prolong the life of the king;
may his years endure to all generations!
May he be enthroned for ever before God;
bid steadfast love and faithfulness watch over him!

So will I ever sing praises to thy name,
as I pay my vows day after day.

We will again be witnesses of the work of The Holy Spirit.

And now, as it is a Monday, I’ll finish this post up with a song by Sting. You may have heard it before. Feel free to sing it along with me.


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