But over the last few weeks, the faithful of the Archdiocese of Detroit have been accompanying Pope Emeritus Benedict XVI, instead, on his own journey to the next phase of his ministry.
Hundreds of Catholics in the archdiocese have offered to say prayers, attend Mass, and do works of charity for the intentions of His Holiness Benedict XVI via the archdiocese’s papal transition blog, online at papaltransition.aod.org. The efforts are part of what’s called a “spiritual bouquet” – a collection of prayers and good works pledged in the former Holy Father’s name.
The blog was established for the time of the papal transition – from Benedict XVI’s resignation, through the conclave, and to the election of the next Holy Father. In addition to the spiritual bouquet, the blog contains spiritual encouragement from Archbishop Vigneron, news about the conclave, and interesting facts about papal history and the Archdiocese of Detroit’s participation in it.
At the conclusion of the papal transition, the Archdiocese of Detroit will communicate to Pope Emeritus Benedict XVI the “flowers” in his spiritual bouquet.
Here are a few of what the faithful have written on the blog:
- Ila Mae Lancendorfer wrote: “When I serve the people who come to the All Saints Soup Kitchen on Monday, I will do so in the name of Pope Benedict XVI, for him and for his intentions.
- Sr. Geanne Noel Novak SSJ-TOSF wrote: “Dear Holy Father, you have truly been our Shepherd, who lived the words of Micah 6:8 – ‘This is what the Lord required of you and only this…To act justly, to love tenderly, to walk humbly with your God.’ I pray that you continue to be His true and faithful servant.”
- Richard Paul wrote: “In appreciation and in honor of your selfless devotion to Christ and His Holy Church, I offer up my Lenten sacrifices and all Masses therein for your personal intentions. May God bless you and keep you under His holy mantle. In the spirit of Thomas Becket, you have shouldered the Kingdom of God and defended it well. May your days be filled with peace and joy.”
- The leadership of St. Regis School in Bloomfield Hills offered a period of prayer and silence at 2 p.m. on Feb. 28, the moment of Benedict XVI’s resignation.
- Detroit Auxiliary Bishop Donald Hanchon wrote: “I must admit that my admiration for our Holy Father has only deepened as I consider the heroism of his decision. I am not surprised he made the decision…but rather that he had the courage to attend to God’s voice in his failing health–and paid attention to it!”
- A blog visitor named Barbara wrote: “Dear Holy Father, I have remembered you in every rosary I’ve said since you were elected Pope and I will remember you in every rosary that I will ever say. Thank for your service to the Church. You have been a true witness for Christ. May our Blessed Mother watch over and protect you.”
