Cardinal George Pell

The Archbishop of Sydney, His Eminence Cardinal George Pell has made the following comments after hearing of the resignation of Pope Benedict XVI in Rome overnight.

Cardinal Pell said; “Pope Benedict has always loved the Church and worked to do what was best for her.

“His resignation came as a surprise to me.

“We thank him for his years of devoted leadership and service and his brilliant teaching.

“We will pray for him as he enters retirement.

“We must also pray for the Church as she prepares to choose the next successor of Saint Peter.”