Updated: Pope Benedict XVI Announces Resignation
Pontiff will be first to step down in nearly 600 years. What's your reaction and where does the church go from here?
Catholics around the world and in Northern Virginia were surprised when Pope Benedict XVI announced on Monday that he will step down from his position Feb. 28. Citing failing strength of “mind and body," Benedict will be the first pope to resign since 1415, the Washington Post reports. “Thinking of the welfare of the Church which he loves so dearly and is serving so faithfully, our Holy Father is confident that his stepping aside for the election of a new pope truly will benefit the Church and allow him to continue his ministry of prayer for the Church," Diocese of Arlington Bishop Paul Loverde said in a statement. The diocese includes parishes all over Northern Virginia. “My initial reaction was ‘Good for you,’" said Father Daniel Gee …
