Here is the translation of a statement released by Kiko Argüello, Carmen Hernandez, and Fr. Mario Pezzi, initiators of the Neocatechumenal Way, on Pope Benedict XVI’s resignation.
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Following the announcement of Benedict XVI’s resignation as Bishop of Rome and Successor of St. Peter, the initiators of the Neocatechumenal Way, Kiko Argüello, Carmen Hernández and Fr. Mario Pezzi – the team responsible for the Neocatechumenal Way worldwide – express their sorrow at this announcement and gratitude to Benedict XVI for the depth of his teaching and for his commitment to bringing forward the Second Vatican Council, as well as for the countless demonstrations of affection and love he showed the Neocatechumenal Way during his pontificate:
«We cannot but thank him for the approval of the Statutes and of the celebrations that mark the itinerary of the Neocatechumenal Way, and also for reviewing, as Prefect of the Congregation for the Doctrine of the Faith, the content of the catechesis that the Way uses in Christian initiation. It is also impossible for us to forget the sending of so many families in mission, the numerous public and private audiences he gave us, his closeness in times of distress and so many demonstrations of sincere love.
We may say that we are saddened by the news, but also very grateful for the many expressions of love towards us and towards the Neocatechumenal Way. We will always be grateful to God for him and pray that the Blessed Virgin Mary grant him health and comfort his heart for this act of courage, profound humility, integrity and above all, love for God and the Church.»
