AimeeM Posted February 11, 2013 Share Posted February 11, 2013 Anyone else feeling sad and unsettled about this? Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Luckymama Posted February 11, 2013 Share Posted February 11, 2013 Speaking as a Catholic, not sad. Unsettled, sure. Uncertainty bothers me. I have been disappointed in the Church hierarchy for some time. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Mama Geek Posted February 11, 2013 Share Posted February 11, 2013 I can't help but wonder what the real reason is. Old age? They are all old. None of them have retired for that reason. So what's the scandal?! That is my first thought too. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Plink Posted February 11, 2013 Share Posted February 11, 2013 I can't help but wonder what the real reason is. Old age? They are all old. None of them have retired for that reason. So what's the scandal?! The sad thing is that I clicked through on the news link this morning to find the answer to that question (What's the scandal?) I didn't even consider that he might be retiring for any other reason. I think I'm more upset at my reaction than his announcement. I've turned cynical. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
momofkhm Posted February 11, 2013 Share Posted February 11, 2013 I was quite surprised. I read the headline to dh and he had to come over and see the computer. I kept saying "they don't know anything yet!" He didn't believe me. Sure enough, at the time the article basically said "the Pope announced his resignation." with no details. I do believe that it's his age. Maybe I'm naive. But he's only been pope for, what?, 7 years. Maybe his health is declining faster than they are letting on. Maybe he is feeling very old in the face of "new" technology - he is 85 (I think). I don't know. I do like to think the best of people. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Chris in VA Posted February 11, 2013 Share Posted February 11, 2013 Sending prayers up for all Catholics, for Pope Benedict, and for a godly successor. My dd and I watched The King's Speech a couple of nights ago, and I told her how unusual it was for the king to resign (Edward). I said the same thing, this morning, regarding the Pope. (Actually, when the news came on, I started to say Holy Crap! but that didn't seem appropriate...Not to joke...) In all seriousness, I am inclined to think he might be suffering some lessening of his mental acuity and energy levels, as is natural. He truly is in my prayers. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
AimeeM Posted February 11, 2013 Author Share Posted February 11, 2013 I was quite surprised. I read the headline to dh and he had to come over and see the computer. I kept saying "they don't know anything yet!" He didn't believe me. Sure enough, at the time the article basically said "the Pope announced his resignation." with no details. I do believe that it's his age. Maybe I'm naive. But he's only been pope for, what?, 7 years. Maybe his health is declining faster than they are letting on. Maybe he is feeling very old in the face of "new" technology - he is 85 (I think). I don't know. I do like to think the best of people. My husband wondered if it was a neurological issue of some sort - he has stated before that he would step down if he were ever unable to fulfill his duties, cognitively. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
AimeeM Posted February 11, 2013 Author Share Posted February 11, 2013 Sending prayers up for all Catholics, for Pope Benedict, and for a godly successor. My dd and I watched The King's Speech a couple of nights ago, and I told her how unusual it was for the king to resign (Edward). I said the same thing, this morning, regarding the Pope. (Actually, when the news came on, I started to say Holy Crap! but that didn't seem appropriate...Not to joke...) ("Holy crap" is a lot less than what I said....) Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Chris in VA Posted February 11, 2013 Share Posted February 11, 2013 My husband wondered if it was a neurological issue of some sort - he has stated before that he would step down if he were ever unable to fulfill his duties, cognitively. I just "liked" this and want to be clear that I am really just agreeing, not "liking" the idea that he may feel impaired. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
KnitWit Posted February 11, 2013 Share Posted February 11, 2013 Our local news is saying that it's his health and that he has been told he should no longer travel. ((((hugs))) to my Catholic friends. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Kathryn Posted February 11, 2013 Share Posted February 11, 2013 Wow! I have to admit, the first thought was wondering what sort of scandal this involved. The resignation of a pope, as with a monarch, is just something we're not used to hearing about absent some scandal. I do hope it's truly for health reasons. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
LaxMom Posted February 11, 2013 Share Posted February 11, 2013 Wow. I didn't know my joke that the neighbors had elected a new pope (based on the plume of smoke coming out of their chimney) on Saturday was prophetic. I should learn to rein in my powers. ;) Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
UrbanSue Posted February 11, 2013 Share Posted February 11, 2013 A new pope (and the first resignation of one in 600 years) is a big, complicated, kind of emotional deal for many, many faithful Catholics. I, for one, wouldn't mind if the scandal talk could be quieted down unless there is good reason to think such a thing. :) Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
JFSinIL Posted February 11, 2013 Share Posted February 11, 2013 I told my hubby that now his dad (89) can feel good about winding down his law practice....after all, if the younger Pope can step down..... I am sure the Pope prayed and got permission from his "boss" before making his decision.Waiting to hear from my sil the Dominican Sister what she thinks. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
UrbanSue Posted February 11, 2013 Share Posted February 11, 2013 Maybe he is feeling very old in the face of "new" technology - he is 85 (I think). I don't know. I do like to think the best of people. The Holy Father is doing better than many octogenarians in this regard. He has been a vocal advocate for using "new media". He even has a Twitter account :) Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Heather in Neverland Posted February 11, 2013 Share Posted February 11, 2013 I am not catholic so I am not up on all the rules, but I didn't know a pope could resign. I thought it was a "til death" kind of job. I am very surprised. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
ktgrok Posted February 11, 2013 Share Posted February 11, 2013 I won't lie, I was not happy when Ratzinger became Benedict. I am wondering if this is God working to move the church on a slightly different path. I do pray for Pope Benedict's health. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
DawnM Posted February 11, 2013 Share Posted February 11, 2013 I think it is just the world we live in these days. I thought the same thing. The sad thing is that I clicked through on the news link this morning to find the answer to that question (What's the scandal?) I didn't even consider that he might be retiring for any other reason. I think I'm more upset at my reaction than his announcement. I've turned cynical. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
RoughCollie Posted February 11, 2013 Share Posted February 11, 2013 He's had 2 strokes and has a heart condition, and he is 85 years old, and he cleared his resignation with God first. I would be totally shocked if there is a scandal involved. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
DawnM Posted February 11, 2013 Share Posted February 11, 2013 Well, you really need to keep up. The last papal resignation was a mere 600 years ago. :laugh: I am not catholic so I am not up on all the rules, but I didn't know a pope could resign. I thought it was a "til death" kind of job. I am very surprised. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Mom in High Heels Posted February 11, 2013 Share Posted February 11, 2013 I heard on the news that he's been told that he should not be taking any long flights, which would certainly curtail visits to foreign countries. If you notice, he's been walking with a cane for a while now too. I think it's likely due to failing health. The College of Cardinals has more Cardinals now than it ever has (IIRC), so it will be an interesting Conclave. I wonder though why, if the Pope is simply resigning, they have to wait until he has actually stepped down to enter the Conclave. Wouldn't it be better to just elect a Pope who can step right in? When we were in Vatican City a few months back, there was almost nothing with Benedict on it. It was almost exclusively John-Paul. He was like the rock star of Popes. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
AimeeM Posted February 11, 2013 Author Share Posted February 11, 2013 He's had 2 strokes and has a heart condition, and he is 85 years old, and he cleared his resignation with God first. I would be totally shocked if there is a scandal involved. Yes. I heard his doctor forbid travel; a big deal for the pope. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
CupOCoffee Posted February 11, 2013 Share Posted February 11, 2013 I am not Catholic, but I do understand the BIGNESS of this. Praying for all my Catholic friends as they process this. I agree with a PP who asked for a restraining of "it must be a scandal" talk till we find out more. ((hugs)) to all our Catholic friends! ~coffee~ Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Catwoman Posted February 11, 2013 Share Posted February 11, 2013 His brother said that he is having trouble walking, so it sounds like he's quite weak. FWIW, I give the man a lot of credit for knowing when he's no longer up to the task, and resigning his position. It's a tremendously powerful position, and it couldn't have been an easy decision to give it up. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Mrs Mungo Posted February 11, 2013 Share Posted February 11, 2013 My husband wondered if it was a neurological issue of some sort - he has stated before that he would step down if he were ever unable to fulfill his duties, cognitively. I'm not Catholic, but I do follow the Pope as a political leader. I agree that this is most likely the reason. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Impish Posted February 11, 2013 Share Posted February 11, 2013 I didn't know the Pope could resign, so that's something new for me. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Tammyla Posted February 11, 2013 Share Posted February 11, 2013 I'm feeling unsettled here. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
UrbanSue Posted February 11, 2013 Share Posted February 11, 2013 I didn't know the Pope could resign, so that's something new for me. Until 1979, most people thought the Pope had to be Italian. Customs die hard :) Before he was pope, Cardinal Ratzinger had asked the Holy Father for retirement more than once. The man is a scholar and a musician and had dedicated his life to serving his Church. I don't think any faithful bishops want the job of pope. I hope he is able to end his life quietly and with dignity and perhaps have enough mental faculties to have a bit of the retirement he has so long wanted. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
TravelingChris Posted February 11, 2013 Share Posted February 11, 2013 I think it is good. I don't like the idea of people serving until they die since so many have medical issues that affect their performance at the end. I am not a Catholic but I think stepping down when one is unable to do a job, even if it is a lifetime appointment, is a very honorable thing to do. Being an American, we only have judges that are lifetime appointments. I would hope that more of them would step down as their health dictates. I know some do but I also know some continue to serve when they are not fully able. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
blondeviolin Posted February 11, 2013 Share Posted February 11, 2013 Interesting... I'm not Catholic and was among those who didn't know the Pope could resign. If he can't travel, aren't there others who can make those visits while he directs it from the Vatican? Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Tiramisu Posted February 11, 2013 Share Posted February 11, 2013 There are too many comments to quote, but I thank everyone who has expressed their sympathy to Catholics at this time. To see the compassion from my sisters of other faiths here is heartwarming and has truly touched me. :grouphug: I accept the Holy Father's decision as being guided by the Holy Spirit but it has not kept me from feeling sad. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
vonfirmath Posted February 11, 2013 Share Posted February 11, 2013 Wow! I have to admit, the first thought was wondering what sort of scandal this involved. The resignation of a pope, as with a monarch, is just something we're not used to hearing about absent some scandal. I do hope it's truly for health reasons. Wow. I didn't expect to see 2 new popes so close to each other. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Luckymama Posted February 11, 2013 Share Posted February 11, 2013 He was really meant to be an "interim" pope, with not as long a reign (is that the right word?) as JPII. Odds are we'll have a post-Vatican II pope. Lots of opportunity for Church history over breakfast today :) Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
UrbanSue Posted February 11, 2013 Share Posted February 11, 2013 Wow. I didn't expect to see 2 new popes so close to each other. There were three in one year in 1978. In modern times, it's become kind of a practice to follow a long-reigning pontiff with someone who is expected to serve a much shorter amount of time. I haven't checked but I'm betting Catholic news sources have "papabile" charts up already (supposed "candidates" for the papacy) and many are probably saying that the cardinals will be looking for a younger pontiff this time around. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
aggieamy Posted February 11, 2013 Share Posted February 11, 2013 I too am feeling ... unsettled by this. He's only my second Pope and I don't like not knowing what's going to happen. Very strangely though I was wondering how old he was yesterday in Mass and how much longer we'd have him. One of DH's friends made a comment (and I've heard it from others) that the Church will end with this Pope and while I don't believe silly predictions of the future I'd sure like another nice Pope appointed quickly. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
AimeeM Posted February 11, 2013 Author Share Posted February 11, 2013 There are too many comments to quote, but I thank everyone who has expressed their sympathy to Catholics at this time. To see the compassion from my sisters of other faiths here is heartwarming and has truly touched me. :grouphug: I accept the Holy Father's decision as being guided by the Holy Spirit but it has not kept me from feeling sad. Ditto. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
UrbanSue Posted February 11, 2013 Share Posted February 11, 2013 I too am feeling ... unsettled by this. He's only my second Pope and I don't like not knowing what's going to happen. Very strangely though I was wondering how old he was yesterday in Mass and how much longer we'd have him. One of DH's friends made a comment (and I've heard it from others) that the Church will end with this Pope and while I don't believe silly predictions of the future I'd sure like another nice Pope appointed quickly. He's thinking of the prophecies of Malachy. I put them in the same reliability category as the Mayan calendar, personally. All the same, I'll probably try to get to confession this month :) Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
AimeeM Posted February 11, 2013 Author Share Posted February 11, 2013 I too am feeling ... unsettled by this. He's only my second Pope and I don't like not knowing what's going to happen. Very strangely though I was wondering how old he was yesterday in Mass and how much longer we'd have him. One of DH's friends made a comment (and I've heard it from others) that the Church will end with this Pope and while I don't believe silly predictions of the future I'd sure like another nice Pope appointed quickly. There's a prophecy of sorts that predicts as much, I believe. Something about "how many popes" before The Church ends... but I liken that to the world ending in 2012 that was predicted - when, in all reality, the Mayans probably just got tired of making calendars :D Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Trish Posted February 11, 2013 Share Posted February 11, 2013 The last time a pope resigned,the New World hadn't been discovered yet. Time to resurrect the St. Malachy Prophecies. This Pope, Benedict, is "the Glory of the Olive." Final Pope: Peter the Roman Should be interesting! Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Dmmetler Posted February 11, 2013 Share Posted February 11, 2013 I wish him good health and comfort, no matter what. I can't imagine working through that sort of system and stepping down. It's not like being the president where you know you have a limited term. If he truly feels that he cannot perform his duties due to his health, I laud him for knowing when he needed to turn it over. The Catholic church worldwide deserves competent, strong leadership. Praying for my Catholic brothers and sisters, for Pope Benedict (will he retain his title? I'm not sure what to call him. I'm sure God will understand) and for the cardinals as they pick a successor. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Lady Florida. Posted February 11, 2013 Share Posted February 11, 2013 I too am feeling ... unsettled by this. He's only my second Pope and I don't like not knowing what's going to happen. I'm curious as to why. There have been 6 Popes in my lifetime, 5 of them while I still called myself Catholic. Popes, like presidents, come and go. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
AimeeM Posted February 11, 2013 Author Share Posted February 11, 2013 I'm curious as to why. There have been 6 Popes in my lifetime, 5 of them while I still called myself Catholic. Popes, like presidents, come and go. Popes do not generally resign and I think this lends to the feeling of unease among many Catholics - if only for the very sudden nature of it. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
windmillmarie Posted February 11, 2013 Share Posted February 11, 2013 I have to say I am somewhat unsettled too. I am in the middle of an exploration of religion and was raised Catholic. I am at the point where I go to Church sometimes, but not regularly, but I have used Catholic schooling materials in my afterschooling. I don't think there's anything scandalous occurring though. Scandal does not stop the Church. It's not going to make a Pope resign. Heath though is a big deal. That's pretty impressive to resign such a high position knowing you aren't feeling up to serving it. Things are going to be rocky for a while. Edited: Timing is a bit odd. Right before Lent. You'd think he would have done so prior to beginning of Litergical year? Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
dangermom Posted February 11, 2013 Share Posted February 11, 2013 My prayers are with Catholic friends as this transition happens. I can understand that you'd be unsettled. I'm sure it will all come out OK. As it happens I'm reading a book about Celestine V right now. Otherwise I wouldn't have known a Pope could resign either. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
BigMamaBird Posted February 11, 2013 Share Posted February 11, 2013 I'm not Catholic so I'm not exactly sure how these things are handled. JPII was Pope throughout my life and it was interesting to see all the pomp involved in selecting a new Pope. My first thought when I heard the news was the immense humility of his actions. To voluntarily set aside all that power because you know, due to your health, someone else could do the job better, is very touching. I"m assuming of course, that that's the reason for his resignation. My prayers to all our Catholic boardies and to the worldwide Church in general. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
MBM Posted February 11, 2013 Share Posted February 11, 2013 He has not been well for quite some time. Who knows? Maybe he's incontinent or prone to fainting, falling, etc. A classmate of mine from college worked for 20 years in the Vatican for their press department, IIRC. I'd love to hear what he thinks. Anyway, I wonder who the new Pope will be? Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Lady Florida. Posted February 11, 2013 Share Posted February 11, 2013 Popes do not generally resign and I think this lends to the feeling of unease among many Catholics - if only for the very sudden nature of it. I'm aware of that. I was born into an Irish-Italian-American Catholic family. I was Catholic until the age of 37. Most of my family members are still Catholic, None of the ones I've heard talking about this today are uneasy or unsettled. ETA: Is my family Shocked? Surprised? Yes. Concerned? No. Well, they're concerned about his health but nothing more. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Parrothead Posted February 11, 2013 Share Posted February 11, 2013 My husband wondered if it was a neurological issue of some sort - he has stated before that he would step down if he were ever unable to fulfill his duties, cognitively. That was my first thought. I wonder if he has early signs of dementia. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Parrothead Posted February 11, 2013 Share Posted February 11, 2013 The Holy Father is doing better than many octogenarians in this regard. He has been a vocal advocate for using "new media". He even has a Twitter account :) I follow him. :coolgleamA: Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
AimeeM Posted February 11, 2013 Author Share Posted February 11, 2013 I'm aware of that. I was born into an Irish-Italian-American Catholic family. I was Catholic until the age of 37. Most of my family members are still Catholic, None of the ones I've heard talking about this today are uneasy or unsettled. All of those I've spoken with are sad and feeling unsettled about it. You and I may have a different vision of the *why* behind unsettled though. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
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