Pope's Resignation a Noble Decision

A Patch blogger weighs in on Pope Benedict XVI's historic announcement this week. Tell us what you think.

Pope to Resign, Leaving Local Visit Uncertain

Pope Benedict XVI was scheduled to visit Southeastern PA in 2015.

In a surprise overnight (Eastern Standard Time) announcement Pope Benedict XVI says he will resign on Feb. 28. It is the first time a Roman Catholic Pope has resigned in nearly 600 years. In an official statement posted on Vatican Radio's website, the 85-year-old leader of the Roman Catholic Chuch cites fading strength and the demands of the job for his decision to step down. Dear Brothers, I have convoked you to this Consistory, not only for the three canonizations, but also to communicate to you a decision of great importance for the life of the Church. After having repeatedly examined my conscience before God, I have come to the certainty that my strengths, due to an advanced age, are no longer suited to an adequate exercise of the …

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