Statement from Bishop Ricard on the Death of Pope Benedict XVI

It is with sadness that the Society of Saint Joseph of the Sacred Heart (The Josephites) has received the news of the death of Pope Benedict XVI.

We join the rest of the Catholic world in commending his soul to God, who he served so well as the head of the universal church.

We offer heartfelt gratitude for his service in many capacities to the church and the Catholic faithful, sharing his gifts of intellectual genius, wisdom and extraordinary zeal.

The faithful in Josephite parishes join our sister parishes in prayers that Pope Benedict now rests from his labors in the heavenly embrace of God forever.

May he rest in peace.