Question 3.57

3.57 Was Benedict XVI right to resign from the See of Peter?

When I heard about the decision of Benedict XVI, I was in Congo-Kinshasa, where I was preaching a retreat for bishops. For me, the pope’s decision was very distressing, a terrible earthquake. I cannot hide the extent of the disappointment that I felt. After a few days, I accepted his resignation with confidence and serenity, because I knew, in the light of faith, that the pope had reached that decision on his knees before the Cross. Benedict XVI resigned from his office with the conviction that this was in keeping with God’s will. All his life he had sought God; once again God showed him the way.

The Pope Emeritus took up residence in a house that John Paul II had allotted to contemplative nuns who prayed for the Holy Father. Today Benedict XVI is the one praying for the Church.