Benigne Papam

"Benedetto, Benedetto" these are the words that people start shouting on the crowded St.Peterssquare in Rome, as soon as the man in the white robe enters the square being driven in his papamobile. Young and old, people from all over the world cheer him on and he waves back to them with a friendly, firm and at the same time shy expression on his face.

Before a general audience on Petersquare, Rome, 2006

He was not the person that wanted to have the spotlight on him. If he could have chosen he would have chosen backstage instead of performing on stage. After starting his pontificate in spring 2005, he did however grow into his role, every day more.

He had to leave his studytable where he was dealing with the most difficult, challenging theological issues and he had to step outside and become the Pope of the world. Especially after having had such a charismatic and extroverted predecor as John Paul the 2nd  this was not the easiest task. But he managed, because he was elected to this post and because he trusted.

John Paul II and Kardinal Ratzinger (before becoming Pope Benedikt XVI).

Humbleness and heartiness are caracteristics that can not be found very often. In Benedikt XVI they are present and alive, as can be noticed once again with his withdrawal from his post as Pontifex.

He thourougly thought the decision through and is "aware of the consequences" but he said:"Both strength of mind and body are necessary, strength which in the last few months has deteriorated in me to the extent that I have had to recognise my incapacity to adequately fulfil the ministry entrusted to me."

As Pope Benedikts 89-year-old Brother Georg Ratzinger said: "Age is weighing on him. My brother would like more rest at this age."

He made this decision for him and the sake of the catholic church, its future aims and its progress.

After 8 years of being the Pontifex he will hang back his white robe into the wardrobe and so will he leave behind his red shiny shoes. Whether he will stay in Rome or return to his beloved Bavaria in Germany to live together with his brother as had been planned in 2005, is still unclear.

As the Vatican Speaker Federico Lombardi said Joseph Ratzinger would like to move to a monastery within the Vatican to dedicate himself completely to praying,  thinking and writing.


A great instance and theologist is leaving the head of the catholic church, but the marks of his extraordinary work will remain visible.

The Guardian, Der Spiegel,