On Today's Historic Events

Now begins a period of transition and speculation under VERY rare circumstances. Our beloved Holy Father, Pope Benedict XVI, announced this morning that he is no longer able to keep up with the rigors of the Petrine ministry.  Though we are certainly saddened to say goodbye to our beloved shepherd, this is an incredible time in the history of our Church! 

In a profound act of humility, we see a man who has spent every waking moment of his life in an ever-deepening devotion to Jesus.  He has truly fulfilled the ancient description of the Pope as the "Servant of the Servants of God."  All he wanted to do was return to Germany and he was continually called away from this desire to greater and greater responsibilities.

Speculation will fill the airwaves over the weeks and months to come, so I don't think I need to add to it now.  I merely wish to convey my deep love for our beloved Holy Father, a man who has been the ultimate example of selfless service and a Pope who has tirelessly spread the Gospel of Jesus Christ, refusing to bend to the pressures of the world.

Please keep Pope Benedict in your prayers as well as the 118 cardinals who will work their way to Rome for the upcoming conclave.  May the Holy Spirit open the hearts and minds of the electors to see clearly the path Christ is calling the Church to walk, and the man He wills to lead us.