This resignation is clearly different.
Though Benedict has certainly been a controversial pope, presiding
over an increasingly firm turn to the theological right, he has not
been personally embroiled in scandal to the same degree. Certainly
nothing that would indicate that he should resign from an office that
until now has essentially been considered unresignable.
And yet, here we are. Benedict has
announced his retirement from the papacy on the basis of his advanced
age and his own personal judgment that he is no longer able to
fulfill the role of spiritual father
to the Roman Catholic community. Declaring his retirement date as 28
February, 2013, Benedict is giving a little more than two weeks
notice. Assemble the cardinals: It is time to select a new
pope!
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.
In this unexpected act, I feel like I am catching a glimpse – perhaps for the first time – into the real character of this pope. This is a spiritual leader who has the humility to set aside his official authority and admit that he no longer has the strength or the divine calling to serve as the apostolic guardian of more than a billion souls. That takes some guts!
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.
In this one decision, Benedict reveals himself to be truly apostolic. As he lays down all his worldly crowns and honors at the feet of Jesus, he can say with integrity, “Be imitators of me, as I am of Christ.“-
For another Quaker’s reaction to Benedict’s announcement, check out Dan Randazzo’s blog, A Closeted Radical.
5 comments:
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.
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