Pope did not ask Cardinal Sodano for statement of support, Vatican spokesman says
May 12, 2010
The director of the Vatican press office has denied a report, published in an Italian newspaper, the Pope Benedict XVI asked for a statement of support from the dean of the College of Cardinals.
The daily Corriere della Sera had reported that before the Easter Sunday Mass at the Vatican, the Pope had asked Cardinal Angelo Sodano to make a statement. Cardinal Sodano offered the Pontiff an Easter greeting, and dismissed criticism of the Holy Father as "petty gossip."
Father Federico Lombardi said that the story in Corriere della Sera was "completely false." He reported that Cardinal Sodano had made his statement of support for the Pope, in light of heavy media criticism, at the suggestion of the College of Cardinals. Pope Benedict was informed just before the ceremony that Cardinal Sodano would speak, and consented to the gesture, the Vatican spokesman said.
Father Lombardi assured reporters that "even in difficult times, the Pope does not beg or organize demonstrations in his own defense or support.”
For all current news, visit our News home page.
Further information:
All comments are moderated. To lighten our editing burden, only current donors are allowed to Sound Off. If you are a current donor, log in to see the comment form; otherwise please support our work, and Sound Off!
-
Posted by: voxfem -
May. 13, 2010 9:29 AM ET USA
People just do not understand Pope Benedict or the office of the pope. It is not about personal desires, wishes, or votes. Pope Benedict does what he does because he believes that is what God is asking him to do. His gift of humility protects him in many cases, I believe. He accepts but doesn't expect, and certainly wouldn't ask. Blessed Mother, keep him always.
