Pope Benedict has been and remains a very good father to the Catholic communion throughout the world. He has been a wonderful teacher, shepherd, and man of prayer. The clearest sign of his care for the Church is this most recent action: his decision to resign the papacy. His sense that he can no longer be the effective missionary and evangelist has led him, in deep love, to hand this great task given him by Jesus Christ to another. On this day of Our Lady of Lourdes when we are asked to be very mindful of the sick, we offer prayers for our Holy Father’s good health and many years. We also pray for the guidance of the Holy Spirit that God’s will may be done in the choice of Benedict’s successor.February 11, 2013
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