The Catholic Church throughout the world mourns the death of Pope Emeritus Benedict XVI who died today, December 31, 2022. We are saddened by the loss of such a renowned, humble scholar and Shepherd, who gave his life to the service of the Universal Church. The longest living Pope, he was a giant of faith and reason.

Upon learning of his death, requests have been received from the Faithful of the Diocese asking what they can do in light of this sad occasion. First and foremost, prayer for the repose of the soul of the Pope Emeritus should be offered. The most common prayers for the deceased include the Our Father, Hail Mary and Glory Be along with the recitation of the Rosary with the intention for the soul of Benedict XVI. On January 4 at 5:00 p.m., at Epiphany Cathedral in Venice, a Mass for the Deceased Pope will be celebrated to which all the faithful of the Diocese are invited and encouraged to attend.

Pope Emeritus Benedict XVI served as Pontiff from April 19, 2005, until he resigned on February 28, 2013. Throughout his papacy, Pope Benedict XVI was firmly committed to the restoration of the unity of the followers of Jesus. He was truly an intellectual and theologian of great depth and his writings and homilies will certainly be a point of reference for the Church in the future. At the same time, his ministry of charity will continue to be an inspiration to all.

Having been blessed to know then Cardinal Ratzinger and later Pope Benedict XVI, I had the opportunity to speak with him on a number of occasions and was particularly touched by his kindness and humility as well as the warmth and encouragement he imparted to all. Appointed by His Holiness Pope Benedict XVI as Bishop of the Diocese of Venice, I have always had a special place for him in prayer and indeed will continue to remember him.