La Crosse (Press Release) - Along with my brothers and
sisters around the world, I was surprised to hear today of the resignation of
our beloved Holy Father, Pope Benedict XVI. This, of course, is important news
and certainly extraordinary in our times.
Pope Benedict has led the
Church in his unflinching leadership in spiritual, intellectual, and world
issues. As a teacher and accomplished author he leaves a rich legacy that will
be tapped for generations to come.
His resignation, during this
Year of Faith, and at the beginning of the season of Lent inspires Catholics
around the world with a deep dependency on our reliance on the Lord Jesus as
the Light who shines in darkness and leads all people to eternal glory.
Successors to the Ministry of
Peter will, thanks largely to the vision of Popes John Paul and Benedict, be
considered from the world wide Catholic community. This, as Pope Benedict has
shown, truly magnifies the dynamic of social media and worldwide connectivity.
The Church is truly a global force announcing the Good News of Jesus Christ.
The Pope—and his successor—will continue to unite the world and strengthen that
message among us.