“I had the honor of meeting Pope Benedict on two occasions during ‘ad limina’ trips to Rome — once when he was pope and previous to that when he headed the then-Congregation for the Doctrine of the Faith. These visits are opportunities for bishops to pray together and share their experiences with the Holy Father and Vatican officials. What struck me most was how welcoming he was. He encouraged us to speak freely about our joys and challenges as bishops and to be courageous messengers of Jesus Christ. And, of course, Pope Benedict leaves a great legacy as a skilled theologian and teacher of the faith. I especially appreciated his beautiful letters about Christian love, hope and charity. He was a humble servant of the Church, and I am so grateful for his leadership during challenging times. Please join me in praying for his eternal rest.”
— Bishop Donald Kettler
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“Christ has summoned home his faithful servant, Pope Benedict XVI, into his warm and loving embrace. A gifted scholar and teacher, he was able to bring light and clarity to the deepest truths of our Catholic faith that uplifted the hearts and minds of believers everywhere. Though brilliant, he was profoundly humble in his eight years of service as the Vicar of Christ. This humility was most evident when, due to his advanced age, he felt it necessary to resign from his papal ministry and become Pope Emeritus Benedict. His fraternal support of Pope Francis has been heartfelt and unwavering. May he now rest from his labors, for his good deeds go with him!”
— Bishop-elect Patrick Neary, C.S.C.
Photo: Pope Benedict XVI greets Bishop Donald Kettler during an April 23, 2012, meeting with bishops from the states of Alaska and Washington. At the time, Bishop Kettler headed the Diocese of Fairbanks, Alaska. (CNS photo/L’Osservatore Romano)