I am a day late in commenting on the anniversary of the election of Pope Benedict. I remember hearing that he asked his predecessor, Pope John Paul II, many times, for permission to retire. I can't help but think that the former Holy Father's refusal to accept Ratzinger's retirement was because he (JPII) "knew" in some sense, what lay ahead for him.
It has also been said that Ratzinger was troubled when it first looked as though the votes of the conclave were starting to go his way, until someone asked him to say yes if the Lord were to call him.
The fact that this man, who is so intelligent, and had worked at the side of the previous Holy Father for years, was still reluctant to take on the job of his sucessor, tells us that we all have doubts from time to time.
Being Pope is a job that is so important and all encompasing as to be almost incomprehensible.
Only by the grace of God do we all continue to live, move and have our being. Lets continue to pray for this pope and for the Church.
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