A PILGRIM IN THE LAST LEG OF HIS JOURNEY

THE FAREWELL OF BENEDICT XVI

In his last words, pronounced at Castel Gandolfo, Benedict XV thanked people for their kindness, friendship and affection. Then, he stated a very simple fact: “I am no longer the Supreme Pontiff of the Catholic Church”. He is no more in charge, not because he  run away, abandoning the ship, but because of his old age, not feeling anymore the physical strength to carry on and to give the best that the Church needs and deserves. The ministry of Peter of being shepherd of the whole flock is a very demanding job, for which the one exercising it should be in the best of his abilities.

Wome may not feel happy with all the decisions that he took during his Pontificate. Anyway, it is impossible to please everybody, and it is impossible to be perfect. There are many commentators and critics who speak as if the Pope, and other leaders of the Church, should be faultless like angels or God himself, but the fact is that they are human beings like everybody else, struggling to be faithful to Christ who is the Supreme Shepherd.

Remembering that, we should give thanks to God for his stewardship. He witnessed to the love of God in Jesus Christ, proclaiming the Gospel always with clarity and passion. He was a teacher of the faith, with a great passion for Jesus Christ. In spite of being a professor, he was able to pass the message in simple and touching language. And his final gesture will remain as an example for others to follow. When someone becomes incapacitated to fully serve the Church, because of age or sickness, it is better to step down, with full trust in the Lord, who is the captain of the ship, and who will never allow his Church to capsize. 

Now “I am simply a pilgrim beginning the last leg of his pilgrimage on this earth.” And he is going to do what all pilgrims can do: “But I would still, thank you, I would still—with my heart, with my love, with my prayers, with my reflection, and with all my inner strength—like to work for the common good and the good of the Church and of humanity.”

As we give thanks for the gift of Benedict XVI, let us pray earnestly for the Cardinals that are going to elect the new Pope. May the Holy Spirit come upon them with his power and guidance.