It's Ash Wednesday today, a very important day for Catholics and many Christian denominations as it marks the beginning of Lent. So it's very interesting that arguably the biggest piece of news that hit the world this week has a significant impact to the Catholic Church. Pope Benedict XVI has resigned, citing advanced age. He will remain the Pope until the end of the month before stepping down, almost 8 years after he took on the role of Sovereign of the Vatican City and leader of the Catholic Church back in April 19, 2005.
This is the first time that the Pope has resigned since 1415, and it makes me wonder what happens to him after. Does he return to being a cardinal in the Vatican? Will he be part of the papal conclave that will elect the new Pope? Whatever happens, I admire Pope Benedict XVI for his tremendous courage in making such a huge decision and I wish him all the best in his post-Papal life.
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