Question 3.56

3.56 In your opinion, who is Benedict XVI the man?

Joseph Ratzinger did not change after his election. He remained a very sensitive, modest, and reserved man. If he got the impression that he had offended his interlocutor, Benedict XVI always sought to explain to him the reasons for his position. This pope was incapable of an authoritarian or peremptory act. He was the embodiment of gentleness, meekness, humility, and God-fearing kindness.

The authority of a pope is spiritual, theological, pastoral, but also political. The Vatican is a State, which maintains diplomatic relations with many countries throughout the world, and the pope must necessarily show great administrative rigor and true firmness in managing personnel.

Nevertheless, I do not think that his respect for others and his spiritual wealth prevented this pope from living up to the political demands of his office.

Indeed, his vision of God and man is so profound that I am certain-and I hope -that one day, by the grace of God, he will be canonized, venerated as a great saint, and proclaimed a Doctor of the Church.