Mass. Catholic Leaders Praise Pope Benedict XVI

San Antonio Express-News
February 11, 2013

http://www.mysanantonio.com/news/article/Mass-Catholic-leaders-praise-Pope-Benedict-XVI-4268516.php

BOSTON (AP) — Massachusetts Catholics are expressing support for Pope Benedict XVI, who made the surprise decision to become the first pope in almost 600 years to resign.

Bishop Robert Deeley, the vicar general of the Boston Archdiocese, said Monday he gave thanks for Benedict's "faithful leadership" in his eight years as pope.

Deeley worked directly with the pope in Rome before taking his assignment in Boston.

Deeley said "I know of his deep and abiding love for the Church and for fulfilling the saving ministry of Jesus."

Ray Flynn, the former Boston mayor and U.S. ambassador to the Vatican, called Benedict a "pious and caring priest." Flynn called the resignation an "act of sacrifice" to make way for a more "energized" leader.

Boston's Cardinal Sean O'Malley was expected to comment later Monday.