Bishop Joseph McFadden at the Diocese of Harrisburg, says the Pope's decision is not out of character and he is sure it was a decision made after much consideration and prayer.
Bishop McFadden, the 10th Bishop in the Harrisburg Diocese says, after the initial shock, he was filled with gratitude for his 8 years of service. "The resignation indicates that he thinks he does not have strength to guide the church."
He called the Pope full of faith, and said his decision to step down was humble. "I believe he has come to point in life, where he feels more vibrant leadership is missed to deal with issues in the world today."
The Vatican says there was no specific medial condition that prompted the decision, but Bishop McFadden says his ability to physically connect with the world's one billion Roman Catholics was likely the 85-year-old's main concern.
"This would not be out of character. His first and foremost love is of Jesus Christ and his church. If he feels he's not able to carry out respect out of love for the church he should step down." Bishop McFadden said.
He says he would be surprised if a Pope was chosen from America, but he won't be surprised if a younger Pope is now chosen, perhaps a man from Asia or Africa.
As for the timing of the resignation, right before lent, McFadden says it was a blessing. "Actually I think it's probably a very good time. Lent calls us to a period of renewal, our discipleship of Jesus Christ. So perhaps in many ways it is a blessing."
Bishop McFadden said he was going to send a written correspondence to the Pope Monday afternoon, expressing his support.
Bishop McFadden, the 10th Bishop in the Harrisburg Diocese says, after the initial shock, he was filled with gratitude for his 8 years of service. "The resignation indicates that he thinks he does not have strength to guide the church."
He called the Pope full of faith, and said his decision to step down was humble. "I believe he has come to point in life, where he feels more vibrant leadership is missed to deal with issues in the world today."
The Vatican says there was no specific medial condition that prompted the decision, but Bishop McFadden says his ability to physically connect with the world's one billion Roman Catholics was likely the 85-year-old's main concern.
"This would not be out of character. His first and foremost love is of Jesus Christ and his church. If he feels he's not able to carry out respect out of love for the church he should step down." Bishop McFadden said.
He says he would be surprised if a Pope was chosen from America, but he won't be surprised if a younger Pope is now chosen, perhaps a man from Asia or Africa.
As for the timing of the resignation, right before lent, McFadden says it was a blessing. "Actually I think it's probably a very good time. Lent calls us to a period of renewal, our discipleship of Jesus Christ. So perhaps in many ways it is a blessing."
Bishop McFadden said he was going to send a written correspondence to the Pope Monday afternoon, expressing his support.