Posted on 05/20/2015 9:27:23 AM PDT by Salvation
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The Pope's signet ring, used for the sealing of important documents, such as papal briefs. It represents St. Peter fishing and bears the name of the Pope. When he dies, an official document is drawn up testifying that his ring was destroyed. This is done to prevent falsification of briefs.
See Also: RING OF THE FISHERMAN
All items in this dictionary are from Fr. John Hardon's Modern Catholic Dictionary, © Eternal Life. Used with permission.
Makes me wonder about Pope Benedict's ring.
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Very interesting thought...
Once Benedict officially relinquishes his papal miter Thursday, his fishermans ring will be destroyed using a special silver hammer. The moment symbolizes the end of the Popes authority and also serves a more practical purpose.
It is a signet ring, used to officially seal documents and ensure their authenticity.
This is to make sure no one will forge a document in the Popes name after the Pope dies, said Fordham University theology Prof. Maureen Tilley.
Thanks for that link. Great pictures there.
No problem! I just love him! “Papa Ben”
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