Retired Pope Benedict XVI died December 31 at a monastery in Vatican City at the age of 95. As Catholics around the world morn his death, Columban Superior General Fr. Timothy Mulroy reflects on the passing of Pope Benedict:
At the close of 2022 (At the dawn of 2023) we look back in gratitude not only on the year gone by, but also on the life of Pope Emeritus Benedict XVI who has now completed his pilgrim journey on this earth.
We give thanks for his life of dedicated service to the Gospel. As pastor and teacher, he united his towering intellect with a profound love for the Church and its mission.
Having prayerfully and patiently borne various crosses throughout his long life, we trust that he now shares in the joy of Christ’s resurrection.
We can be confident, therefore, that Pope Emeritus Benedict XVI will continue to watch over the Church and our troubled world during 2023 and throughout the ages that lie ahead.
May you and all who are dear to you be greatly blessed throughout 2023.
Fr. Timothy Mulroy
Columban Superior General