
What Did Being a Cardinal Mean to Joseph Ratzinger?
As cardinal deacon, in April 2005 Ratzinger presided over the funeral of John Paul II, the general congregations, and the conclave that then saw his election to the pontificate.
As cardinal deacon, in April 2005 Ratzinger presided over the funeral of John Paul II, the general congregations, and the conclave that then saw his election to the pontificate.
The Council's many theological and doctrinal accomplishments were crucial to rekindling that radical, Christ-centered faith that would be the source of a revitalized Catholic mission to convert the modern world.
The pontificate of Pope Francis seems to feel most comfortable in the immediate post-conciliar period, yet those who desire to drag the Church back to 1972 must contend with the colossal interpretative legacy of John Paul II and Benedict XVI.
COMMENTARY: How fitting that the quintessential man of the liturgy should be a child of the Paschal Triduum, the summit of the liturgical year.
“Spiritual progress tends toward ever more intimate union with Christ. This union is called ‘mystical’ because it participates in the mystery of Christ through the sacraments — ‘the holy mysteries’ — and, in him, in the mystery of the Holy Trinity. God calls us all to this intimate union with him.” (CCC 2014)
Bishop Oster also raised the question of whether recent attacks on Benedict XVI indicated that the pope emeritus still presents a threat to a specific vision of the Church being advanced in Germany.
COMMENTARY: Aside from Cardinal Joseph Ratzinger, no curial cardinal achieved more on critically important issues than did the Chilean cardinal, who died Oct. 3.
COMMENTARY: June 29 is a fitting date to reflect on the length and breadth of the Pope Emeritus’ long priestly service.
COMMENTARY: Poignant memories of Good Friday 16 years ago carry special significance today.
COMMENTARY: How much of John Paul’s vast teaching and witness will remain of guiding importance and what aspects, if any, will be left aside?
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