The Resignation of Pope Benedict XVI

On February 28, 2013 Pope Benedict XVI became the first pope to resign the papacy since Pope Gregory XII in 1415.  Please pray for Benedict XVI, the pope emeritus, as well as Cardinal George and the entire College of Cardinals as they begin the process of selecting a new pope next week. 

A Prayer for Pope Benedict XVI
O God of all time,
you created days of toil and of repose.
Graciously hear our prayer of gratitude
for the ministry of your servant Benedict
and grant him a time of rest from his labors.
May he continue to be guided by your hand in his retirement,
and know both health and peace.
And when his earthly days are done,
may he see your glory and rest at last in you for ever.

We make this prayer
in the name of Jesus Christ,
your Son and our Lord. Amen.