A statement from Bishop David Malloy on the death of Pope Emeritus Benedict XVI.

With the announcement today of the death of Pope-emeritus Benedict XVI, I ask that we join in prayer both in gratitude for his service as the Successor of St. Peter and for his eternal rest and union with God.

Joseph Ratzinger, as a priest, bishop and cardinal, gave his life to the Church. His personal holiness, combined with his extraordinary brilliance and insightful writings helped to deepen the Church’s understanding of the Scriptures, the liturgy and God’s revelation of His love and justice for all humanity. Pope-emeritus Benedict was a keen analyst of the Church in the context of the modern world.

As Pope, he took as his motto, “Cooperatores Veritatis" (Cooperators of the Truth)”. In humility and with courage Pope-emeritus Benedict proclaimed by his teaching and his life the reality of God who is the basis of the truth that guides the human race. The Pope-emeritus took particular interest in clarifying the authentic meaning and implementation of the teachings of the Second Vatican Council in whose work he took part. Even in his years of retirement, Pope-emeritus Benedict witnessed to the goodness of faith.

Personally, I am deeply grateful to the Pope-emeritus. He appointed me to serve as the 9th Bishop of Rockford. I had various opportunities to meet with him over the years. To be in his presence was to be with one whose graciousness and humility gave witness to his deep faith.

May God reward Pope-emeritus Benedict, and may he intercede for us and for the whole Church that he served so well.

A special public Mass will be celebrated for the late Pope Emeritus at the Cathedral of St. Peter, 1243 N. Church St. , Rockford, on Thursday, January 5, 2023 at 5:30 p.m.