”Along with the rest of the world, I continue to process today’s sudden and unexpected announcement by Pope Benedict XVI that he will resign his office of Bishop of Rome on Feb. 28.
”It is not a complete surprise, however, that this man of great humility and dedication would recognize his inability to carry out fully the duties his office requires and would put first what ultimately is best for the Catholic Church and its members.
”I ask all to join me in praying for the Holy Father and for the College of Cardinals which will elect his successor,” said the Most Rev. Paul G. Bootkoski, Bishop of Metuchen.
