…says the catholic pontiff’s demise colossal loss to the world
Edo State Deputy Governor, Rt.Hon. Comrade Philip Shaibu has mourned the passing of former Pope, Benedict XVI, (born Joseph Ratzinger). He passed on at the age of 95 years.
Shaibu described the demise of the former Catholic Pontiff and Head of Vatican City as a colossal loss to the world, particularly the catholic community.
Former German, Pope Emeritus, Benedict XVI, resigned his position as the Head of Catholics in 2013 due to health issues – becoming the first to do so since 1415. His passing was announced by the Vatican Saturday morning at 9:34 in the Mater Ecclesiae Monastery in the Vatican.
Shaibu, a devout Catholic in a statement, said: “l express deep sadness over the death of the former Pope. He was passionate and dedicated to his sacred calling”.
Photo: Andrew Medichini / AP
According to him, the former Pope was “full of courage, charisma and character”, while extolling the Pontiff for being a man who influenced not only the youths but the entire Catholic world.
” I received the news of Pope Emeritus, Benedict XVI, this morning (Saturday) with rude shock. I extend my condolences to all catholic faithful around the world, especially the catholic community in Edo State and indeed, Nigeria”.
“Despite his health challenges in the last 10 years, resulting in his resignation, the Pope’s charisma not only won the hearts of youths but the affection of millions of believers from every part of the world”.
” He was a strong personality of faith, a man of peace, held in high esteem throughout the world “.
“My joy, however, is that you are raised with our Lord and Saviour, Jesus Christ on the right hand of God Almighty. At the end, we all shall sing the song of victory in the presence of our Creator”.
” I pray for the catholic world to bear this great loss with deeper faith and love for God Almighty”, Shaibu added.
Photos: apnews.com