The Archbishop of Khartoum wrote a circular to priests, religious and the faithful of the archdiocese on Tuesday explained that the Pope’s resignation was “legitimate.”
Cardinal Gabriel Zubeir Wako said he wrote the circular to confirm news broadcasted Monday that the Holy Father had resigned from his ministry as bishop of Rome and successor of St Peter.The Archbishop of Khartoum said the announcement created some confusion.
He asked the faithful to pray for the Pope and to thank for his faithful service to the Church done with great wisdom and dedication.
Cardinal Zubeir said Pope Benedict will stay in a former monastery inside the Vatican dedicating his time to prayer.
He explained that after the Pope resigned on February 28, the cardinals will convoke a conclave to elect the new supreme pontiff.
Cardinal Zubeir said the election of the new Pope needs the faithful’s fervent prayers as well.