I agree. I think there is more to this story behind the scenes. I am troubled by Catholics who are so casual to applaud the Pope’s resignation and dismiss it as “oh well, he was getting older, let him enjoy his retirementâ€. Tradition should not be taken lightly in the Catholic Church and dismissed on a whim.
The Papacy is only an office, it is not a Sacrament. When one accepts the office, one acquires all of the authority that comes with it, including the ability to teach infallibly on matters of Faith and Morals. If one relinquishes the office, the authority goes to the next bishop who accepts the office. The Holy Spirit will never be confused about who rightly holds the office.
This is highly unusual to be sure, but not unprecedented. Things regarding the “end of days” seem to be happening with more frequency. If the next bishop to take the Chair of Peter has “Peter” as a first or last name, or as his papal name, we will all be wondering if St. Malachy’s prophecy is complete.