The only news yesterday was the announcement by Pope Benedict 16th that he was retiring. In this photo the Pope plays piano at his summer residence in Les Combes, Val D’Aosta, Italy

Thought on Tuesday – February – 12/02/2013

‘Many people perceive Christianity as something institutional – rather than as an encounter with Christ – which explains why they don’t see it as a source of joy.’
~Pope Benedict 16th


It was the only talking point yesterday and no one had predicted the unexpected announcement that the Pope would resign at the end of this month. World leaders were warm in their praise for him yesterday. It was certainly a brave decision but also the right one. The world is full of people who think they are indispensable, when in fact whether we like it or not the show always goes on. The Pope has simply said he hasn’t the energy to continue in the role and hopefully will be able to enjoy his retirement now.

He has been described as a charming and shy man but also very conservative. Before he became Pope he was known as “God’s Rottweiler” but in fairness as time went on he seemed to mellow and warm himself to people. He made some obvious mistakes and upset the Jewish and Islam world by unhelpful comments. But he held his hand up on both occasions and said sorry, which is always a sign of a good leader. He is known to be an accomplished pianist and a lover of Mozart. He also likes cats and apparently is known to have looked after many stray cats in Rome. Much will be said and written about his decision but hopefully it will be seen as an exciting time for the Church and a time of new beginnings. I have no doubt this is the way Pope Benedict sees it.