The Pope of the Universal Church announced his resignation yesterday. Of course, there is a LOT of conversation about this.
I have spoken to a few people who know I am Catholic and they asked me about it. I was surprised by this because, one, I didn't know that my Catholicism showed and two, they felt comfortable asking me about my opinion on the matter and about Catholicism in general.
So, I was both flattered and a little surprised by the short conversations but, I was also impressed by their earnest attention. The two people to which I was speaking both really listened and there wasn't any criticism. Just honest learning. I hope I said the right things. :/
Anyhow, it is my time to weigh in on the matter. Like most people, we know it is difficult to step down from any position. And, we know it takes not only self awareness but, great courage to step down from such a high position. I believe it is a great act of humility, acceptance of human limitation, and selflessness to step down from the papacy.
It will be very interesting to see which rituals will be used to retire the ring and all the other stuff we do for the transition to the new Pope.
Oh and Happy Mardi Gras! Remember to have one extra bite of King's cake for me.
♥
