Last Day for Pope Benedict XVI

When Pope Benedict announced that he was stepping down from the Chair of St. Peter, he revealed that he was led to this decision by God during prayer. In his characteristically no-nonsence German style, he set the exact date (today) and time so that the 1 billion Catholics in the world could use Lent to pray for his successor. Although there has been some un-charitable speculation about his motives and health as well as some unlikely spin by the media about the opportunities for drastic change, I am actually in awe again of the Roman Catholic Church and its rich traditions. Unlike 8 years ago, my children can join me in following the news and developments with greater interest! First, we sent in our contribution to the spiritual bouquet (organized partly by Alison) and we adopted a cardinal to pray for during the Conclave.