Social and political criticisms
From the Guardian | February 11, 2013 by John Hooper in Rome
The Pope, Benedict XVI (Joseph Ratzinger) now 86, resigns, claiming failing strength and health as the main reason. He is the third Pope to resign since 1045 (Pope Benedict IX), the second was Pope Gregory XII in 1415 and many wonder whether such resignation are allowed or are normal. The resignation is effective on Feb. 28.
Today is the feast of Lourdes in France. It could not have come at a much better time.
But his reign was largely marked by outcry over sexual abuse by clerics.
The Guardian remarked that the 6 year reign of the Pope has been marked by controversies. While an intellectual, he lacked the vigor to enforce his thoughts and the reforms. One such area is the reorganization of the curia - the central governing body of the church. He committed several gaffes which included remarks on the Muslims; he used an old quote saying that Muhammads contribution were "only evil and inhuman". The other was his unacceptance of condom use in Africa to control HIV/AIDS spread.
What is the signifance of the Pope's resignation
