Pittsburgh Bishop David Zubik recalls Pope Benedict XVI, announces special Mass

Bishop David Zubik, bishop of the Roman Catholic Diocese of Pittsburgh, released a statement regarding the death of Pope Benedict XVI, which includes personal observations and the announcement of a Mass for Pope Benedict at 7 p.m. Thursday in St. Paul Cathedral in Pittsburgh.

His statement:

Pope Benedict taught us much during his papacy, but the most enduring lessons may be of humility and fraternity. His historic decision to resign when he could no longer fulfill his duties to the best of his ability demonstrates his love for our Lord and our Church. The way he has lived quietly, in a brotherly friendship with his successor, Pope Francis, is a model for all Catholics to follow as we continue to journey together in service to Jesus and His Church.

Pope Benedict XVI leaves a deep and indelible mark on our lives. Long before he became our Holy Father, he served as a periti of the Second Vatican Council, an advisor to the bishops gathered for the council. During that time, he earned the admiration of many for both his theological clarity and his humility.

On a personal note, through a coincidence that had taken me to Rome, I was in St. Peter’s Square in 2005 when the white smoke rose, he was announced to the world as Pope Benedict XVI.

Two years later, he gave me the greatest honor and responsibility of my life, when he appointed me bishop of the hometown diocese.

During these days when we remember his leadership, I encourage all the faithful of the Diocese of Pittsburgh to pray for Pope Benedict, both privately and publicly, for his eternal rest, and especially as we gather together at all of the Masses in our parish churches this week.

In a particular way I invite you to join me as we celebrate a Mass for Pope Benedict in Saint Paul Cathedral on Thursday, Jan. 5, at 7 p.m. I encourage as many people as possible to join us. It will be on that day that Pope Benedict will be laid to final rest at Saint Peter’s Basilica in Rome.

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