Cardinal Maida reacts to Pope Benedicts resignation

Cardinal Adam J. Maida, archbishop emeritus of the Archdiocese of Detroit, was among the cardinals who participated in the conclave which elected Pope Benedict XVI pope in 2005. Cardinal Maida, who resides in Plymouth Township, made the following remarks regarding Pope Benedict XVI’s announced resignation:

“The announcement of our Holy Father’s resignation from his Petrine office effective February 28, 2013 was a great surprise. Over the past 8 years, he has served God’s people with great charity and wisdom and has been a sterling example of holiness of life in the exercise of his ministry. The Church, indeed the whole world, has been blessed to have his presence and enlightened witness of God’s love for all God’s people.

“A certain sadness touches our hearts as we ponder the news of his resignation, but we cannot deny the reality of old age as it affects all of us. We give thanks to God for the gift of his person and presence among us as the successor of Peter and the Vicar of Christ.

“May he now know and experience the peace and joy of Christ as he begins a new chapter in his life.”

Cardinal Adam Maida Archbishop Emeritus of Detroit 11 February 2013