It is with a heavy heart that I share, for those of you that have not yet heard, that Pope Benedict XVI passed away early this morning. 

Please join us in prayer as a community in remembrance of him and for the repose of his soul. Each day for the next 9 days throughout the Novendiale, the 9 days following the Pope’s death, we’ll pray alongside an excerpt from Pope Benedict XVI’s writings & preaching. We’re blessed to be guided by Msgr. John Cihak, who served as a Papal Master of Ceremonies for Pope Benedict XVI.

A powerful excerpt from Pope Benedict XVI’s first homily as Pope after Pope John Paul II’s passing:

“How alone we all felt after the passing of John Paul II – the Pope who for over twenty-six years had been our shepherd and guide on our journey through life. He crossed the threshold of the next life, entering into the mystery of God. But he did not take this step alone. Those who believe are never alone – neither in life nor in death. At that moment, we could call upon the Saints from every age – his friends, his brothers, and sisters in the faith – knowing that they would form a living procession to accompany him into the next world, into the glory of God…

I too can say with renewed conviction: I am not alone. All the Saints of God are there to protect me, to sustain me, and to carry me. And your prayers, my dear friends, your indulgence, your love, your faith, and your hope accompany me.”

Pope Benedict XVI