iBestTravel

Your Gateway to the Best Travel Experiences

Pope Benedict XVI: A Visual Journey Through His Life

Jeffrey Johnson03 mins

The Life and Legacy of Pope Emeritus Benedict XVI

Pope Emeritus Benedict XVI died on Saturday, December 31, the Vatican confirmed in a statement. He was 95 years old.

According to Vatican spokesperson Matteo Bruni, the former pope’s health had deteriorated in the past several weeks. Benedict XVI became pope in 2005 and resigned in 2013, citing his “advanced age.” He was the first pope to resign since Gregory XII in 1415.

Benedict was born Joseph Aloisius Ratzinger in Marktl am Inn, Germany, in 1927. He's seen here on the left along with other members of his family in 1938.
Benedict was born Joseph Aloisius Ratzinger in Marktl am Inn, Germany, in 1927. He’s seen here on the left along with other members of his family in 1938: his brother, Georg; his mother, Maria; his sister, Maria; and his father, Joseph.
This photo of Benedict was taken in 1943, when he was drafted by the German army. He later deserted and was taken prisoner by the US Army.
This photo of Benedict was taken in 1943, when he was drafted by the German army. He later deserted and was taken prisoner by the US Army.
Benedict, center, prays during an open-air Mass near Ruhpolding, Germany, in 1952. He was ordained as a priest in 1951.
Benedict, center, prays during an open-air Mass near Ruhpolding, Germany, in 1952. He was ordained as a priest in 1951.
Benedict poses for a photo in 1959, when he was a professor of dogmatic theology at the University of Freising in 1955. He taught at various colleges until 1969.
Benedict poses for a photo in 1959, when he was a professor of dogmatic theology at the University of Freising in 1955. He taught at various colleges until 1969.
Benedict, left, was one of five new cardinals created by Pope Paul VI in June 1977.
Benedict, left, was one of five new cardinals created by Pope Paul VI in June 1977.
Benedict is greeted by people in Munich, Germany, in July 1977. He was the archbishop of Munich and Freising.
Benedict is greeted by people in Munich, Germany, in July 1977. He was the archbishop of Munich and Freising.

Key Moments in the Papacy of Benedict XVI

  • Ordination as a priest in 1951.
  • Election as Pope on April 19, 2005.
  • Resignation in 2013, marking a significant event in modern Church history.

Contributions to the Catholic Church

Benedict XVI left an indelible mark on the Catholic Church through his extensive teachings, writings, and efforts to engage with contemporary issues.

Conclusion

As we reflect on the life of Pope Emeritus Benedict XVI, his legacy in theological thought and leadership is undeniable. His journey from Ratzinger to pope is a testament to his dedication and impact on millions around the globe.


Related Posts

Back To Top