[Ken H]

(I don’t include Benedict in that, but it’s a shame he, too, wasn’t able to hold on instead of being pushed aside, but the pressure must’ve been overwhelming by these dark forces).

If true, then he chose to save his own skin rather than tell the truth and let the chips fall.

[livius]

Benedict would have resigned for only one reason: the good of the Church. I have no idea what the threat was (it may have been related to Vatican finances rather than gays, although some of the players are the same). He is essentially living as a prisoner in the Vatican gardens.

[Oratam]

I've thought the same thing but concluded it was an act of faith--Benedict's confidence that God would thwart their plans--for him to step aside. Benedict's continued good health puts the lie to the claims made by those who deposed him.

In another context, this might be termed "strategery."

The upcoming synod may be the shadow church's high water mark. I don't know. We need to pray.