Bishop Paprocki: Pope Benedict ‘an authentic example of faithfulness’

Posted on: December 31, 2022
The new pope called himself “a simple, humble worker in the vineyard of the Lord” when he addressed the world from the balcony of St. Peter’s Basilica April 19. Upon his election German Cardinal Joseph Ratzinger took the name Pope Benedict XVI. (CNS photo by Nancy Wiechec) (Dec. 12, 2005) See YEAREND-TRANSITION Dec. 9, 2005.

Benedict appointed Paprocki bishop of Springfield in 2010

NEWS: FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
12/31/2022
Contact: Andrew Hansen (ahansen@dio.org)

Springfield, IL – Bishop Thomas John Paprocki of the Diocese of Springfield in Illinois issued the following statement in response to the death of Pope Emeritus Benedict XVI:

“Pope Emeritus Benedict XVI was an authentic example of faithfulness to God and Catholicism, living and preaching the Gospel message with truth and passion. Always writing and teaching, his warm smile, gentle demeanor, and pastoral approach to explaining and living out the Catholic faith inspired millions and brought people closer to Christ. His reverence toward the Eucharist, the Mass, and the sacraments are examples for us today on how we should all view and respect these treasures of the Catholic faith. His steadfast defense of our faith’s teachings and traditions and remaining faithful to them, despite the pressures of the secular world and from inside the Church, is the mark of a true leader.    

“To this day, I am humbled Pope Benedict appointed me as the ninth bishop of the Diocese of Springfield in Illinois. I had the honor of meeting with him several times. I will forever remember his friendliness and compassion. His theological genius and his ability to communicate our rich and oftentimes difficult theology to the people in a clear and understandable way was most impressive. The Catholic Church lost an incredible and humble man, but his legacy leaves a lasting impression on the faithful and our Church.”

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