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Why Benedict?

His choice of the name Benedict was significant.

In his first general audience in St Peter's Square on April 27, 2005, the new Pope explained why he chose the name.

He revealed: "Firstly, I remember Pope Benedict XV, that courageous prophet of peace, who guided the Church through turbulent times of war. In his footsteps I place my ministry in the service of reconciliation and harmony between peoples.

"Additionally, I recall Saint Benedict of Nursia, co-patron of Europe, whose life evokes the Christian roots of Europe. I ask him to help us all to hold firm to the centrality of Christ in our Christian life: may Christ always take first place in our thoughts and actions."

Papal failure

The papacy and hierarchy of Roman Catholicism have failed both its community and its tradition by refusing their sacramental vocation as envisioned in John’s gospel. That vocation is to lead by serving from below rather than by ruling from above. .And, once again, it is Peter that sets the contemporaray example—be it for resistance or acceptance, be it for obedience or disobedience.

At precisely this moment in history, an assertion that the Roman Catholic Church is the fullest expression of Christ’s will is almost like a very bad joke. It invites the obvious response that it may be the emptiest. In Another’s words: “Why do you call me ‘Lord, Lord,’ and do not do what I tell you?’” (6:46).