suffer as a result of his increasing frailty. When he visited an old people’s home in Rome in December he said, ‘I come to you as Bishop of Rome, but also as an old man visiting his peers. It would be superfluous to say that I am well
acquainted with the difficulties, problems and limitations of this age.’
Benedict has served the Church well. His papacy has been marked by his gentle demeanour, deep scholarship and evident holiness. With grateful hearts we wish him well and pray that the Holy Spirit guides the Cardinals in the challenging task of electing his successor.
John McGrath Catholic Schools Office