Wednesday, 27 February 2013: Pope Benedict has given a special Apostolic Blessing to the clergy and people of the Diocese of Limerick ahead of his resignation tomorrow.
The news of Pope Benedict’s prayers for the Bishop Elect and the diocese was relayed to Fr Leahy by Cardinal Marc Ouellet, who heads the Congregation for Bishops in the Vatican.
Said Bishop Elect Fr Leahy: “Cardinal Ouellet sent me a very encouraging letter about my appointment as Bishop of Limerick. In it he told me of a recent meeting he had with Pope Benedict in which the Pope spoke of my appointment.
“As well as assuring me that he would keep me in his prayers, Pope Benedict warmly imparted to the clergy and people of the Diocese of Limerick his Apostolic Blessing. I think we can now see this Apostolic Blessing as a parting gift from the Pope to the diocese of Limerick.
“It is offered to everyone in the diocese as we set out on a new stage in the diocese’s journey of faith, hope and love.
“Let us pray for Pope Benedict in gratitude for his example of great trust in the future of the Church as he continues to live in the service of the Church through prayer.”
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