A “modest” 90th birthday party is being planned for Benedict XVI, who stunned the Catholic Church by resigning as pope in 2013. His personal secretary and long-time aide, Monsignor Georg Gaenswein, told an Italian Catholic news agency Saturday that Benedict’s birthday, which falls on Easter Sunday this year, will be celebrated on Monday in Bavarian style, in keeping with the emeritus pontiff’s roots.
“There will be a small moment of celebration in keeping with his strength,” Gaenswein said about the frail churchman.
Benedict cited fading strength when announcing his decision to become the first pontiff to resign in 600 years. Attending the party will be a delegation from Bavaria and Benedict’s elder brother, Monsignor Georg Ratzinger. The sibling’s visit will be “the most beautiful” birthday gift, Gaenswein added.
My respect for this pope for retiring....we shouldnt make 'power' a do or die affair. African leaders take note.
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