Death and state funeral of Pope Benedict XVI
This article documents a recent death and accompanying funeral rites. Information may change rapidly as the event progresses, and initial news reports may be unreliable. The latest updates to this article may not reflect the most current information. (December 2022) |
On 31 December 2022, at 09:34 Central European Time (UTC+1),[1] Pope Emeritus Benedict XVI died at the Mater Ecclesiae Monastery in Vatican City aged 95. Benedict had been Pope Emeritus since his resignation as the leader of the Catholic Church in 2013.[2] Following his death, the Holy See announced that his body would lie in state in St. Peter's Basilica from 2 January 2023 until his funeral.[3]
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The news of his death came after Pope Francis, Benedict's successor, announced a deterioration in his health on 28 December and asked the faithful for prayers.[4] His death marked the end of a nine-year period in the history of the Catholic Church during which two men who have served as popes lived within Vatican City.[5] Pope Benedict XVI's funeral is scheduled to take place on 5 January 2023.[3]
Background
Cardinal Joseph Ratzinger, then Prefect of the Congregation of the Doctrine of the Faith, was elected Pope Benedict XVI on 19 April 2005, succeeding John Paul II, who died on 2 April 2005. He resigned as pope at 20:00 (CET) on 28 February 2013, in the first papal renunciation in almost six centuries since Pope Gregory XII in 1415,[6] and the first to voluntarily step down since Pope Celestine V in 1294.[7][8][9] He specifically cited his declining health as the reason for his resignation.[10]
In October and November 2017, a photograph circulated on Facebook featuring Benedict, the German journalist Peter Seewald, and Stefan Oster, Bishop of Passau. The image showed Benedict with a black eye. He had suffered hematoma after previously slipping at his house the week prior.[11][12] This was amid already circulating speculations of his health in the weeks prior.[11]
On 1 July 2020, Benedict's brother Georg Ratzinger died, shortly after Benedict had visited him in Germany in June.[13][14]
On 3 August 2020, after speculation amongst the German press in the wake of a visit by Seewald on 1 August, Benedict's aides disclosed that he was suffering from inflammation of the trigeminal nerve, but stated that his condition was not serious.[15] Maltese cardinal Mario Grech reported to Vatican News on 2 December 2020 that Benedict was enduring serious difficulties in speaking, reportedly stating to a group of cardinals that "the Lord has taken away my speech in order to let me appreciate silence".[16]
Benedict became the longest-lived pope on 4 September 2020, at 93 years, 4 months, 16 days, surpassing Pope Leo XIII, who died in 1903.[17]
Last days
In his weekly general audience on 28 December 2022, Pope Francis announced that Pope Benedict was very ill. Francis did not disclose the exact nature of his ailment, but called for people to pray for Benedict.[18] Later that day, Matteo Bruni, the director of the Holy See Press Office, attributed Benedict's illness to old age and revealed that he was under medical supervision at the Mater Ecclesiae Monastery in Vatican City, where he had lived since his resignation as pope.[19] Bruni said that Francis had visited Benedict after the audience.[20] On the day of Pope Benedict's death, Bruni stated that Pope Benedict XVI had received the Anointing of the Sick on 28 December.[3]
On 29 December, Bruni said Pope Benedict's situation was "serious but stable", and that he was "absolutely lucid and alert".[21][22] The following day, the Holy See Press Office stated: "Last night the Pope Emeritus was able to rest well. He also participated in the celebration of Holy Mass in his room yesterday afternoon. At present his condition is stationary [sic]."[23] The same day, a special Mass for Benedict XVI planned the day before[24] was celebrated at the Basilica of St. John Lateran.[25][26]
Death
Pope Benedict XVI died at the Mater Ecclesiae Monastery on 31 December 2022 at 9:34 a.m. CET, at the age of 95.[27]
On the same day, the Holy See released Pope Benedict's spiritual testament, dated 29 August 2006, but not made public until his death.[28][29]
Funeral
The Holy See has a procedure regarding what unfolds during and after the death and funeral of a Pope; however, these plans are specifically geared to the deaths of incumbent Popes.[30] Due to the lack of precedent, the procedure for Pope Benedict's death is not known to the public, with the Holy See initially stating that it will disclose funeral plans in the few hours following his death, and that his body would lie in state at St. Peter's Basilica on 2 January 2023.[3] Press Office director Matteo Bruni stated that the funeral will occur on 5 January, with Pope Francis presiding.[3][31] The governments of Germany and Italy are the only ones invited to send official delegations.[32]
On 31 December, the Holy See announced that Pope Benedict XVI's remains would be buried in a crypt below St. Peter's Basilica.[33]
Reactions
Argentina
- The Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Worship issued a statement expressing condolences. The Argentine ambassador to Brazil Daniel Scioli called him a "brilliant theologian". Governor of Córdoba Juan Schiaretti expressed condolences and said that Benedict XVI had "sacrificed himself for the Church".[34]
Commonwealth realms
- King and Head of the Commonwealth Charles III released a statement, saying that he remembered "with fondness [his] meeting with [Benedict XVI] during [his] visit to the Vatican in 2009."[35]
Canada
- Prime Minister Justin Trudeau said that Benedict XVI "was an accomplished theologian and scholar, and he was an inspiration to millions."[36]
- Leader of the Official Opposition Pierre Poilievre said that Benedict XVI "offered humble service and a wealth of rich theological depth for more than a billion Catholic faithful."[36]
United Kingdom
- Prime Minister Rishi Sunak released a statement, saying that he was "saddened to learn of the death of Pope Emeritus Benedict XVI. He was a great theologian whose UK visit in 2010 was an historic moment for both Catholics and non-Catholics throughout our country."[37]
- Archbishop of Canterbury Justin Welby released a statement, saying that Pope Benedict XVI "was one of the greatest theologians of his age – committed to the faith of the Church and stalwart in its defence. In all things, not least in his writing and his preaching, he looked to Jesus Christ, the image of the invisible God. It was abundantly clear that Christ was the root of his thought and the basis of his prayer."[38]
- Archbishop of Cardiff Mark O'Toole released a statement, saying that Benedict XVI's "encounter with Jesus Christ gave the whole of his life a new horizon and a definitive direction."[39]
Germany
- President Frank-Walter Steinmeier released a statement, saying that "Germany mourns Pope Benedict XVI and will remember his work."[40]
Ireland
- President Michael D. Higgins released a statement, saying that Pope Benedict XVI "will be remembered too for the value he attached to intellectual work and for the personal commitment he gave to such within the Roman Catholic Church, this work being respected by both supporters and critics."[41]
- Taoiseach Leo Varadkar released a statement, saying that he was "saddened this morning to learn the passing of Pope Emeritus Benedict XVI. Leading the Catholic Church for almost a decade, the son of a police officer and a cook, the first German elected as Pope in one thousand years, he was ultimately a 'humble worker in (sic) vineyard of the Lord'."[42]
- Tánaiste Mícheál Martin released a statement, saying that Benedict XVI "showed great strength of character and humility in leaving the papacy at a time when by his own analysis, his declining health meant he could not provide the leadership he felt the Church required at the time. He will be remembered for his commitment to global peace including in Northern Ireland and particularly for those of the Catholic faith as a respected theologian and scholar."[43]
- Archbishop of Armagh Eamon Martin released a statement, saying that Benedict XVI "was a person of deep spirituality and prayer, an outstanding apostle of Christ."[44]
Israel
- Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu issued a statement on behalf of all the citizens of Israel sending "deep condolences to the Christian world on the passing of Pope Benedict XVI" and noting that Pope Benedict "was a great spiritual leader who was fully committed to the historic reconciliation between the Catholic Church and the Jewish people, a tradition he continued in his historic visit to Israel in 2009."[45]
Italy
- President Sergio Mattarella released a statement, saying that Benedict XVI was a "distinguished theologian, brilliant academic and man of extremely fine culture."[46]
Luxembourg
- Grand Duke Henri said in a statement that Benedict XVI "tirelessly pursued his mission as pastor and teacher, even after his resignation from the papal throne in 2013."[47]
Palestine
- President Mahmoud Abbas said in a telegram of condolence: "We mourn his death with you, remembering our reception of His Holiness in Bethlehem, the birthplace of Christ, on the day he was a dear guest on the Holy Land in May 2009, carrying a message of love and peace to the world. During his visit, he met Palestinian Islamic and Christian figures in the Noble Sanctuary in our capital Jerusalem, and the Aida Camp for Palestinian refugees, and he expressed his solidarity and support for our people's freedom and independence in their Palestinian state."[48]
Philippines
- President Bongbong Marcos said on Twitter: "We are in deep sorrow upon learning of the passing of Pope Emeritus Benedict XVI today. The Philippines is one in offering our prayers for the eternal repose of his soul. We keep his loved ones in our prayers."[49]
Russia
- President Vladimir Putin referred to Benedict XVI as "a prominent religious figure and statesman [and] a staunch defender of traditional Christian values."[50]
South Africa
- President Cyril Ramaphosa released a statement, saying that South Africans "reflect with deep regard on the spirit leadership Pope Benedict XVI provided to his Church and humanity more broadly."[51]
United States
- President Joe Biden released a statement, saying that Pope Benedict XVI "will be remembered as a renowned theologian, with a lifetime of devotion to the Church, guided by his principles and faith."[52]
- House Speaker Nancy Pelosi released a statement, saying that Benedict XVI was "a global leader whose devotion, scholarship and hopeful message stirred the hearts of people of all faiths."[53]
- Archbishop of New York Timothy M. Dolan released a statement, saying "the human family grieves the passing of this erudite, wise, and holy man, who spoke the truth with love", also noting that Benedict appointed him as archbishop and named him Cardinal.[54]
References
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- ^ Guy, Jack (31 December 2022). "Former Pope Benedict XVI dies age 95". CNN. Retrieved 31 December 2022.
- ^ a b c d e "Farewell to Benedict XVI: 'Humble worker in vineyard of the Lord'". Vatican News. 31 December 2022. Retrieved 31 December 2022.
- ^ Pullella, Philip (31 December 2022). "Former Pope Benedict, hero to Catholic conservatives, dies". Reuters. Retrieved 31 December 2022.
- ^ "Former pope Benedict XVI dies aged 95". The Guardian. 31 December 2022. Retrieved 31 December 2022.
- ^ Pearson, Hada Messia,Michael (11 February 2013). "Too tired to go on, Pope Benedict resigns". CNN. Retrieved 31 December 2022.
- ^ "Former Pope Benedict XVI dies at 95". NBC News. Retrieved 31 December 2022.
- ^ Cullinane, Susannah (11 February 2013). "Pope Benedict XVI's resignation explained". CNN. Retrieved 31 December 2022.
- ^ "Father Raymond J. de Souza on the Pope: The Holy Father takes his leave". National Post. Retrieved 31 December 2022.
- ^ "Pope Benedict XVI resigns owing to age and declining health". The Guardian. 11 February 2013. Retrieved 1 January 2023.
- ^ a b kathleensenior (28 October 2017). "Pope Benedict has black eye in new photos". Aleteia — Catholic Spirituality, Lifestyle, World News, and Culture. Retrieved 31 December 2022.
- ^ "The photo with Ratzinger's "black eye"". La Stampa (in Italian). 27 October 2017. Retrieved 31 December 2022.
- ^ "Georg Ratzinger ist gestorben". katholisch.de (in German). Retrieved 31 December 2022.
- ^ "Ex-pope visits ailing brother in Bavaria – DW – 06/18/2020". Deutsche Welle. Retrieved 31 December 2022.
- ^ Christine (4 August 2020). "Vatican Confirms Pope Benedict Is Ill, But Says Condition 'Not Serious'". The Tablet. Retrieved 31 December 2022.
- ^ "Benedict XVI 'having trouble speaking' - new cardinal - English". ANSA.it. 2 December 2020. Retrieved 31 December 2022.
- ^ "Benedict XVI becomes oldest pope in history". France 24. 4 September 2020. Retrieved 31 December 2022.
- ^ "Pope Emeritus Benedict XVI 'very sick', says Pope Francis". The Guardian. 28 December 2022. Retrieved 31 December 2022.
- ^ Bordoni, Linda (28 December 2022). "Pope Francis asks for prayers for Benedict XVI - Vatican News". vaticannews.va. Retrieved 31 December 2022.
- ^ Brockhaus, Hannah (28 December 2022). "Vatican: Benedict XVI under medical care as health takes sudden turn". Catholic News Agency. Retrieved 31 December 2022.
- ^ Allen, Elise Ann (29 December 2022). "Benedict XVI 'stable' but still in serious condition, Vatican says". Crux. Retrieved 31 December 2022.
- ^ CNA (29 December 2022). "Vatican: Benedict XVI is absolutely lucid and alert, but his condition remains serious". Catholic News Agency. Retrieved 31 December 2022.
- ^ Wimmer, AC (30 December 2022). "Vatican: Benedict XVI has rested well, his condition is stable". Catholic News Agency. Retrieved 31 December 2022.
- ^ Brockhaus, Hannah (29 December 2022). "Rome Diocese to offer Mass for Benedict XVI". Catholic News Agency. Retrieved 31 December 2022.
- ^ "Cardinal De Donatis presides over special Mass for Benedict XVI". Vatican News. 30 December 2022. Retrieved 31 December 2022.
- ^ "Prayers in Germany, Rome for Frail Former Pope Benedict XVI". VOA. Retrieved 31 December 2022.
- ^ "Former Pope Benedict XVI dies at 95". BBC News. 31 December 2022. Retrieved 31 December 2022.
- ^ "The Spiritual Testament of Pope Emeritus Benedict XVI". Vatican News. 31 December 2022. Retrieved 1 January 2023.
- ^ Brockhaus, Hannah (31 December 2022). "Full Text: Benedict XVI shares his final thoughts with the Church". Catholic News Agency. Retrieved 1 January 2023.
- ^ Horowitz, Jason; Povoledo, Elisabetta (31 December 2022). "Pope Benedict XVI Dies: Updates: Pope Francis Will Preside Over Benedict's Funeral on Thursday". The New York Times. ISSN 0362-4331. Retrieved 31 December 2022.
- ^ "Pope Benedict latest: King Charles leads tributes to 'God's Rottweiler'; Pope Francis praises 'noble' and 'kind' former pontiff; funeral date revealed". Sky News. 31 December 2022. Retrieved 31 December 2022.
- ^ "Reactions to Pope Benedict XVI's death". Associated Press News. 31 December 2022. Retrieved 1 January 2023.
- ^ Brockhaus, Hannah (31 December 2022). "Benedict XVI's final resting place decided: He will be buried in Vatican crypt". Catholic News Agency. Retrieved 31 December 2022.
- ^ "Gobierno argentino y todo el arco político expresaron sus condolencias por el fallecimiento de Benedicto XVI". Noticias Argentinas (in Spanish). 31 December 2022.
- ^ "A message of condolence from The King following the death of Pope Emeritus Benedict XVI". The Royal Household. 31 December 2022.
- ^ a b Lee, Michael (1 January 2023). "Trudeau, Poilievre offer condolences after death of Pope Emeritus Benedict XVI". CTV News. Retrieved 1 January 2023.
- ^ olufemiajasa (31 December 2022). "UK PM Sunak 'saddened' by death of 'great theologian' Benedict". Vanguard News. Retrieved 1 January 2023.
- ^ "Statement by the Archbishop of Canterbury on the death of Pope Benedict XVI". Archbishop of Canterbury. 31 December 2022.
- ^ "Archbishop prays Benedict will 'enjoy an eternal face to face with the Lord whom he served so faithfully'". Archbishop of Cardiff. 31 December 2022.
- ^ "Federal President Steinmeier on the death of Pope Benedict XVI". Bundespräsidialamt. 31 December 2022.
- ^ "Statement by President Michael D. Higgins on the death of Pope Emeritus Benedict XVI". President of Ireland. 31 December 2022.
- ^ "Statement by Taoiseach Leo Varadkar TD on the passing of Pope Emeritus Benedict XVI". gov.ie. 31 December 2022.
- ^ "Statement by Tánaiste and Minister for Foreign Affairs, Micheál Martin TD on death of Pope Benedict". dfa.ie. Department of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Ireland. 31 December 2022.
- ^ "Archbishop Eamon Martin offers prayerful condolences on the death of Pope Emeritus Benedict XVI". Archdiocese of Armagh. 31 December 2022.
- ^ "Netanyahu offers condolences for death of ex-pope Benedict, recounts Israel visit". The Times of Israel. 31 December 2022.
- ^ "Mattarella: Benedetto XVI figura indimenticabile per il popolo italiano" (in Italian). Presidenza della Repubblica. 31 December 2022.
- ^ "Décès de Sa Sainteté le Pape Benoît XVI - Message de condoléances du Grand-Duc à Sa Sainteté le Pape François" (in French). Cour grand-ducale Luxembourg. 31 December 2022.
- ^ "الرئيس عباس يُعزي بوفاة البابا الفخري بندكتس السادس عشر" [President Abbas offers condolences on the death of Pope Emeritus Benedict XVI]. khbrpress.ps. 31 December 2022.
- ^ Pinlac, Beatrice (1 January 2023). "Marcos Jr. mourns death of former Pope Benedict XVI: 'We are in deep sorrow'". Philippine Daily Inquirer. Retrieved 1 January 2023.
- ^ "World reacts to Pope Benedict XVI's death". Al Jazeera. 31 December 2022.
- ^ "President Ramaphosa mourns the passing of Pope Benedict XV1". The Presidency of the Republic of South Africa. 31 December 2022.
- ^ "Statement from President Joe Biden on the Death of Pope Emeritus Benedict XVI". The White House. 31 December 2022.
- ^ "Pelosi Statement on the Passing of His Holiness Pope Benedict XVI". Speaker of the United States House of Representatives. 31 December 2022.
- ^ "Statement of Cardinal Timothy Dolan on the Passing of Pope Emeritus Benedict XVI". Archdiocese of New York. 31 December 2022. Retrieved 31 December 2022.
Further reading
- "Death of Pope Emeritus Benedict: his official biography". Vatican News. 31 December 2022. Retrieved 31 December 2022.
- Zengarini, Lisa (31 December 2022). "Reactions from the world to news of Benedict XVI's death". Vatican News. Retrieved 31 December 2022.