Bishop of Youngstown issues statement on death of Pope Emeritus Benedict XVI
YOUNGSTOWN, Ohio - Youngstown Bishop, The Most Rev. David Bonnar has issued a statement on the death of Pope Emeritus Benedict XVI.
The statement reads as follows:
"The Clergy, Religious and Faithful of the Diocese of Youngstown mourn the death of Pope Emeritus Benedict. Pope Benedict's story is one of humble and faithful service to the Church rooted in a passionate commitment to promoting and protecting the Truth of the Gospel."
"His Episcopal Motto, 'Cooperators of the Truth' illustrates his uncompromising inentionality to the truth. Pope Benedict's final words as pontiff point to the last leg of his earthly journey which was focused on preparing for his eternal life."
"He said, 'I'm simply a pilgrim who is starting the last stage of his pilgrimage on Earth.' May he now occupy the room prepared for him in God's Kingdom and see God face to face. Together, let us pray that Pope Benedict will know God's peace and rest."
Bishop Bonnar will be the principal celebrant for two diocesan masses to pray for Pope Benedict.
One will be on Tuesday, January 3 at Saint Paul Church in North Canton at 4:00 p.m. and another will be held on Wednesday, January 4 at 12:10 p.m. at the Cathedral of Saint Columba on West Wood Street in Youngstown.
