Pope Benedict XVI (1927–2022,) born Joseph Aloisius Ratzinger, was a German Catholic theologian and philosopher, serving as the head of the Catholic Church and sovereign of the Vatican City State 2005–13. The first Pope to step down in nearly 600 years, he chose to be known as Pope Emeritus.
Born in Marktl am Inn, Bavaria, Germany, Ratzinger was ordained a priest in 1951 and earned a theology doctorate from the University of Munich in 1953. An esteemed professor and author, he became Archbishop of Munich and Freising in 1977, later Prefect of the Congregation for the Doctrine of the Faith in 1981.
Elected as Pope in 2005, he chose the name Benedict XVI, paying homage to Pope Benedict XV and Saint Benedict of Nursia. His papacy highlighted the importance of faith, reason, and interfaith dialogue. Despite achievements, his tenure faced criticism for handling the clergy sexual abuse crisis and for his statements on sensitive topics, including Islam and the use of contraceptives to prevent the spread of HIV/AIDS.
After his resignation in 2013, Benedict XVI lived in the Mater Ecclesiae Monastery within Vatican City, focusing on a life of prayer and reflection due to advanced age and declining strength.
A prolific author, Benedict XVI wrote over 60 books and numerous papal documents. Notable works include Introduction to Christianity (1968,) The Spirit of the Liturgy (2000,) Jesus of Nazareth (2007,) Jesus of Nazareth: Holy Week (2011,) and Last Testament: In His Own Words (2016.)
More: Wikipedia • READ: Works by Pope Benedict XVI
Although the particular inclination of the homosexual person is not a sin, it is more or less strong tendency ordered to an intrinsic moral evil, and thus the inclination itself must be seen as an objective disorder.
—Pope Benedict XVI
Topics: Disorder
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