papal resignation Archives

On popes and the problem with preemptive resignation
- Analysis
- August 27, 2017
Following confirmation this week that Pope Paul VI wrote resignation letters in advance in case he was struck by a disabling condition, debate is likely to revive about whether such a preemptive resignation would be valid under Church law. Until that’s resolved, we’re sort of like people driving around without car insurance – gambling the worst won’t happen, but always knowing it could.
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Pope Francis hints he may not be around in 2019
- Associated Press, Vatican
- April 9, 2017
During a youth vigil on Saturday to rally enthusiasm for the Catholic Church’s next World Youth Day, to be held in Panama in 2019, Pope Francis told young people they’re the future even if he may not be around to see it. “I don’t know if it will be me, but the pope will be in Panama!” he told the crowd at the St. Mary Major basilica.
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Benedict XVI’s aide says 2014 World Cup influenced resignation
- Associated Press, Vatican
- October 2, 2016
Emeritus Pope Benedict XVI’s longtime personal aide says that the former pontiff might have tried to hold on to travel to Brazil for World Youth Day had it been held in 2014, but when it was moved up due to the World Cup, he realized he couldn’t make it and instead resigned.
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In new book, Pope Benedict XVI exudes a rare humility

In a new book-length interview, presumably his last, with German journalist Peter Seewald, emeritus Pope Benedict XVI projects a humility rare for any world leader by candidly conceding that government was not his strong suit, despite the fact that he actually authored historic reforms.

Benedict says he quit because he couldn’t face another trip

Vatican

August 24, 2016

In an interview as part of a new biography set for an Aug. 30 release in Italy, emeritus Pope Benedict XVI once again knocks down speculation about the motives for his resignation, saying it was solely because he was tired and unable to take up another grueling international trip.