The Vatican has announced the passing away of former Pope Emeritus Benedict XVI at the age of 95.
Pope Emeritus Benedict XVI died at 9:34 am on Saturday, December 31, at his residence at the Vatican’s Mater Ecclesiae Monastery.
In 2013, ill health forced him to resign as the leader of the catholic church, having been in office for less than eight years; he became the second Pope to resign after Gregory XII in 1415.
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The Vatican said the body of the late Pope Emeritus would be in Saint Peter’s Basilica so the faithful could bid him farewell.
The full statement reads, “The Holy See Press Office announced that the Pope Emeritus died at 9:34 AM on Saturday morning in his residence at the Mater Ecclesiae Monastery, which the 95-year-old Pope emeritus had chosen as his residence after resigning from the Petrine ministry in 2013.
With sorrow I inform you that the Pope Emeritus, Benedict XVI, passed away today at 9:34 AM in the Mater Ecclesiae Monastery in the Vatican. Further information will be provided as soon as possible. As of Monday morning, 2 January 2023, the body of the Pope Emeritus will be in Saint Peter’s Basilica so the faithful can bid farewell.”
Tribute pour in
Cardinal Vincent Nichols, head of the Catholic Church in England and Wales, eulogised Pope Benedict for his openness and gentleness.
British Prime Minister, Rishi Sunak labelled the late pope as a great theologian and praised his famous visit to the UK in 2010, calling it a historic moment for Catholics and non-Catholics.
The Archbishop of Canterbury, Justin Welby, described Pope Benedict as one of the greatest theologians of his age; a stalwart committed to defending the church.
Presidential candidate and former Governor of Anambra state, Peter Obi, also joined to mourn Pope Benedict. He called him a real shepherd of God’s people, adding that he left indelible historical marks.
Ben Murray-Bruce, the founder of Silverbird group, said, “the death of Pope Benedict XVI saddens me. It hurts me as a human and also as a catholic that I am. I pray for the family of Pope Benedict XVI and the catholic church worldwide.”
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Johnson Suleman Raise Dead Boy Back to Life
Meanwhile, Nigerian pastor, Apostle Johnson Suleman reportedly raised a dead 5-year-old boy back to life.
The miracle occurred during a prayer session held at the church premises in Benin city.
The General Overseer of Omega Fire Ministries worldwide was reported to have prayed for the dead child during the Mighty Turnaround program.
