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Cardinal Ratzinger, who was already recognized as one of the greatest theologians of the 20th century, became Pope Benedict XVI at the age of 78. He emerged from the loggia of St. Peter’s on April 19, 2005, with arms outstretched in the style of his predecessor, greeting the crowds with these words: “Dear Brothers and Sisters: After the great Pope John Paul II, the Lord Cardinals have elected me, a simple and humble worker in the vineyard of the Lord.” A native of Germany, he took the name ‘Benedict’ with a view to revitalizing the faith and culture of Europe. The name is reminiscent of Pope Benedict XV, who led the Church during the turbulence of World War I, and St. Benedict of Nursia, known as a spiritual father and patron of Europe.
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Michael J. Ruszala (Pope Francis: Pastor of Mercy)