Brookline Pastor Surprised by Pope Benedict's Resignation
A Pope has not resigned since Pope Gregory XII.
Father Brian Clary of Saint Mary’s of the Assumption was at the gym when he saw the breaking news flash that Pope Benedict XVI was resigning on February 28. “I was totally surprised. At first, I thought it was an Internet hoax,” Father Brian said. “ I thought he had resigned as a Twitter user.” The 85-year-old Pontiff announced his resignation on Monday for health concerns. Benedict made the announcement of his resignation at a Monday morning meeting in the Vatican, according to an article on Boston.com. He has served in the role since 2005. “I think it is a remarkable time to announce his resignation on the World Day of the Sick,” Father Brian said. “Pope John Paul II designated February 11 as a day of sharing. He asked people to see …
