Baton Rouge bishop issues statement on pope resignation announce - WTVM.com-Columbus, GA News Weather & Sports

Baton Rouge bishop issues statement on pope resignation announcement

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Bishop Robert Muench Bishop Robert Muench
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BATON ROUGE, LA (WAFB) -

Bishop Robert Muench of the Diocese of Baton Rouge released a statement Monday on the announcement Pope Benedict XVI will resign.

The bishop wrote:

Pope Benedict XVI's announcement that he is resigning the papacy at the end of the month brought surprise to the Church and to the world.

When I think of Pope Benedict, the words of St. Paul come to mind: "Whatever you do, do with your whole heart. Do it for the Lord" (Colossians 3:23).

The Holy Father has distinguished himself by his transparent holiness, unswerving faith and fervent prayer. His brilliant intellect, prolific writings, enlightened leadership and tireless service have shown a tenacious fidelity to God and to the Church.

The words of Jesus himself also fittingly apply to this occasion: "Well done, good and faithful servant" (Mt 25: 21).

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