Pope Emeritus Benedict XVI Dies

Pope Benedict XVI, also known as Joseph Aloisius Ratzinger, was the head of the Catholic Church and sovereign of the Vatican City State from 2005 to 2013. Born in Germany in 1927, he entered the priesthood in 1951 and rose through the ranks of the Church, becoming a cardinal in 1977 and serving as the Prefect of the Congregation for the Doctrine of the Faith under Pope John Paul II.

In 2005, Pope Benedict XVI was elected to succeed Pope John Paul II following his death, becoming the first pope to be elected from outside Italy in 455 years. He was also the oldest pope to be elected in nearly 300 years.

During his papacy, Pope Benedict XVI focused on strengthening the Church’s commitment to traditional teachings, particularly on issues such as abortion, contraception, and same-sex marriage. He also sought to improve relations with other religions, particularly Judaism and Islam, and made efforts to reach out to secular society.

Pope Benedict XVI faced a number of challenges during his papacy, including the ongoing sexual abuse scandal within the Church, as well as criticism over his handling of the issue. He also faced criticism over his handling of the controversial Leadership Conference of Women Religious, a group of American nuns who were accused of promoting “radical feminist themes.”

Despite these challenges, Pope Benedict XVI was widely respected for his intellect and his commitment to traditional Catholic teachings. He retired from the papacy in 2013, citing his advanced age and declining health, and was succeeded by Pope Francis. He lived in retirement in the Vatican as a well-respected figure within the Church. Pope Emeritus Benedict XVI dies today – Saturday 31st December 2022. May he rest in peace.