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March 5, 2013
Bishop thanks Pope Benedict in Cathedral Mass from Diocese of Corpus Christi on Vimeo.
On Friday, Feb. 22, Bishop Wm. Michael Mulvey celebrated a Mass of Thanksgiving for Pope Benedict XVI. Earlier in the month, Pope Benedict announced that he would resign his papacy on Feb. 28.
A number of priests and deacons from the Diocese of Corpus Christi assisted the bishop on the altar and several hundred members of religious orders and lay faithful participated in the Mass. The Cathedral choir and the Knights of Columbus added to the solemnity of the occasion.
The Mass was fittingly celebrated on the Feast Day of the Chair of St. Peter. Bishop Mulvey opened his homily with lighthearted memories of his early acquaintances with the papacy.
He said that Catholics identify with the pope as a father figure who gives structure to the church. The bishop said that everyone needs structure in their lives and in the church it is a source and foundation of faith, morals and liturgy. The papacy keeps the church together.
He reminded those in attendance that it was proper for them to give thanks to God for the person of Pope Benedict XVI. In time, Bishop Mulvey said, the world will be grateful for Pope Benedict who was uniquely wise and humble.
All popes, the bishop said, have taught important lessons, and Benedict is no different. His willingness to sacrifice the prestige of his office for the good of the church is an example to all in humility.
This is Alfredo Cardenas reporting for the South Texas Catholic.