Have you seen the news today? The Pope quit. A short little sentence, but one of huge historical importance.
A Pope hasn't resigned since 1415. 1415...almost seven hundred years ago!!! The amount of time since the last occurrence is just mind-boggling.
Being raised Lutheran, there are a number of things I don't know and/or understand about the Catholic church. One of the things that has always mystified me is the selection of a pope who is already so advanced in age. Wouldn't it make sense to place someone in that office that is robust, and has the energy to lead a congregation of one billion?
There is already a lot of talk about the Conclave choosing an American. The truth is that the American Catholic church is still considered a toddler in the eyes of the Church. Think about it...our country isn't even three hundred years old! That's just a blip in the history of the Church.
This will be a fascinating time to watch the goings on in the Vatican. The formalities, the smoke signals, and the pageantry of a new selection are a piece of living history.
Stay tuned!
Love,
Jerri
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