I could not quite believe my eyes this morning when a New York Times alert flashed across my phone: “Pope Benedict Resigns.” This is probably the biggest single news item in the worldwide Christian Church in my lifetime. The spiritual leader of 1.2 billion of my brothers and sisters in the Roman Catholic community is doing something that has no real precedent. While it is true that there was a pope who resigned back in 1415, that resignation came amidst one of the greatest scandals in Church history, with three different popes vying for control!
I am sure that there will be a great variety of reactions to Benedict’s resignation. Some – especially among the Roman Catholic community’s progressive wing – will cheer. Some will be appalled, and many others will be confused. I understand all of these reactions, but I have a different one. I feel awed and grateful.
I cannot see into Benedict’s heart, and I am in no position to judge him. Nevertheless, I must say that I am deeply impressed by this act. It inspires me to be more willing to reevaluate my own spiritual gifts and sense of divine calling. Benedict’s resignation reminds me that I must be open to laying aside even the most importantwork that I do in order to be faithful to the One who calls me. By laying down the splendor, power and authority of the papacy, Benedict challenges me to follow his example, releasing my own privileges and reputation in order to become a more faithful, loving servant to the whole body of Christ.
For another Quaker’s reaction to Benedict’s announcement, check out Dan Randazzo’s blog, A Closeted Radical.
I wonder if there could be a health reason. I know they normally are in place until death, but there are some illnesses that let you live a goodly number of years while robbing your decision-making abilities and coherency, such as Alzheimers. If he’s been diagnosed with something in that vein, I could understand why he’d abdicate.
Mackenzie, his announcement said “failing strength of mind and body” which does lead one to wonder if there is a dementia aspect. Still that has never been a reason for a papal resignation before. Regardless of his medical condition, it is an unprecedented step taken humbly for the good of the Church.
Thank you for a wonderful tribute.
This was a very enjoyable and thoughtful posting.
Kudos for the recognition of “… brothers and sisters in the Roman Catholic community…” and the thoughtful, constructive — and personal — appraisal of the meaning of the Pope’s resignation.
Micah, (I’m a friend of Faith’s)
I just have to say how deeply I appreciate the impartiality of this particular article. As a Roman Catholic myself, I’ve had to deal with all of the conspiracy theories from everyone. I, too, am completely in awe of the Pope’s humility.
Thanks again for this.