"Stand Firm in Faith"... Last Will of Former Pope Benedict XVI Revealed

[Image source=Yonhap News]

[Asia Economy Kim Min-jin, Political and Social Division Research Team Content Manager] The will of Pope Emeritus Benedict XVI, who passed away at the age of 95 on the 31st of last month (local time), has been revealed.

The last message of Pope Emeritus Benedict XVI, released by the Vatican Press Office on the same day, was "Stand firm in faith. Do not let yourself be confused."

His spiritual will was made public 10 hours after his passing that afternoon. Pope Emeritus Benedict XVI said, "Jesus Christ is the true way, the truth, and the life, and the Church, despite all its flaws, is truly His body."

In his will, he wrote, "I wholeheartedly ask forgiveness from everyone I have wronged in any way," and also said, "Looking back on the decades I have lived in the late stage of life, I realize how many reasons there are to be thankful."

He expressed gratitude, saying, "First, I thank God who gave me life and guided me through many moments of confusion," adding, "God always lifted me up and shone His face upon me again whenever I began to slip." He also added, "Looking back, I see and understand that this dark and tiring path was for my salvation."

Regarding his parents, Benedict XVI expressed thanks, saying, "They gave me life during difficult times and prepared a wonderful home with great sacrifice and love." Lastly, he requested, "Please pray for me so that despite all my sins and shortcomings, the Lord may receive me into the dwelling of eternal life."

The will revealed this time was written on August 29, 2006, one year after Benedict XVI's enthronement. It was written in German and is two pages long.

Benedict XVI ascended to the papacy as the 265th pope in April 2005 following John Paul II, and resigned from the papacy in February 2013 after eight years due to health issues. He was born in 1927 in Bavaria, Germany, and his birth name was Joseph Ratzinger.