Posted on 02/13/2013 6:34:25 AM PST by marshmallow
Father Federico Lombardi, SJ, director of the Vatican Press Office, met today with reporters to answer questions concerning yesterdays surprising announcement of the Holy Fathers impending resignation.
Catholic News Service has a very thorough report on the meeting, which yielded many interesting details about Pope Benedicts decision and what the coming weeks will hold; that story can be read here. Vatican Radios report on Lombardis remarks is here.
Some items of particular interest:
Father Lombardi confirmed that Pope Benedict has a pacemaker, and that it was put in before his election to the papacy. He also confirmed that Benedict had the batteries replaced three months ago during a normal and routine procedure at a private clinic in Rome.
Pope Benedicts anticipated fourth encyclical on faith will not be completed before his official resignation on February 28; Father Lombardi said it was possible the document will be published under another form.
The conclave to elect Benedicts successor must begin 15 to 20 days after the Holy See is officially vacant (which will occur on March 1).
(Excerpt) Read more at catholicworldreport.com ...
Interesting.
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