Is the spirit a-movin'?

Stupefied!  That was my reaction to the announcement made by Pope Benedict XVI concerning his decision to renounce his ministry as Bishop of Rome and spiritual leader of over one billion Catholics.  I’m sure I wasn’t the only one who was stunned by this sudden notice of impending resignation.  After all, it’s the Pope we’re talking about.  The last Supreme Pontiff to resign did so about six hundred years ago.

However, from the time of his election, Pope Benedict never appeared quite comfortable in the Chair of St. Peter.  Following on the heels of the very popular Pope John Paul II, the former Cardinal Ratzinger seemed to pale in comparison to his predecessor.   His decision now to step down further emphasizes the differences between these two men.  The duties and strains of the past eight years have certainly taken its toll on a man who was nearly 80 when he assumed the hefty responsibilities of the papacy.  Yet, unlike Pope John Paul II who so visibly showed the world what it was like to suffer through the debilitating effects of geriatrics, the current Pope has determined that, for the sake of the Church, it would be better to cope with his failing health in a much more private manner.  And why not?  Surely even a Pope deserves to have a little peace and quiet in his twilight years.  It also takes considerable courage to publicly acknowledge one’s limited capacity of mind and body and to relinquish the reins of power for the greater good. 

So, that brings the Catholic Church to the brink of a new opportunity.  Very shortly, a conclave will convene to select a new Pope from the ranks of the College of Cardinals and one can only hope that the spirit is indeed a-movin’ within this process.  Given the significant challenges facing the Church in modern times, it’s imperative that the 266^th Pope be a relatively young man (in comparison to other Cardinals), enthusiastic, energetic, and in touch with the issues and concerns of the people he is chosen to serve.   If the next Pontiff is going to revitalize the faithful, he must be open to positive change and be willing to drag the Church into the 21^st century, despite opposition from some conservative members within the Vatican.  It will not be an easy task, but this may be the last chance to reach out to millions of disconnected Catholics throughout the world, especially in North America.  “Come, Holy Spirit, fill the hearts of your faithful and kindle in them the fire of your love.”