JOHNSTOWN The resignation of Pope Benedict XVI is a historic moment in the life of the Church, the leader of the Diocese of Altoona-Johnstown said Monday. <\/p>\n
Bishop Mark L. Bartchak expressed surprise at the news that Pope Benedict XVI announced his resignation. <\/p>\n
Pope Benedict served the church well by providing continuity in the tradition of the Catholic faith in its entirety, Bartchak said in a written statement. He is a person of deep spirituality, calling people into a closer relationship with Jesus Christ. He is also a person of great intellect and an excellent teacher. <\/p>\n
I would not be surprised if he will continue to reflect on and write about topics that are important to him even after he retires, Bartchak said. I am certainly grateful for his leadership in our church, and we continue to keep him in our prayers. <\/p>\n
Bartchak had the opportunity to meet Benedict on two occasions. His first contact came in September 2011 during a workshop for new bishops from around the world. They met again in December 2011 during an ad limina, a meeting to report on the state of the diocese, with the other bishops of Pennsylvania. <\/p>\n
During each visit Bartchak said he found Pope Benedict to be very engaged, attentive and focused. <\/p>\n
The bishop will celebrate a Mass at noon Feb. 28 at the Cathedral of the Blessed Sacrament in Altoona. <\/p>\n
The faithful will be invited to pray for Pope Benedict and the College of Cardinals, who will elect a new pope. <\/p>\n
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Altoona-Johnstown bishop praises pontiff\u2019s spirituality and leadership<\/a><\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":" JOHNSTOWN The resignation of Pope Benedict XVI is a historic moment in the life of the Church, the leader of the Diocese of Altoona-Johnstown said Monday. Bishop Mark L. Continue reading