Benedict XVI

noun

1. Benedict XVI1927MGermanRELIGION: pope original name Joseph Alois Ratzinger . born 1927 in Germany, pope (2005–2013): the first pope to resign since Gregory XII in 1415: on retirement he was accorded the title pope emeritus

Example Sentences

And in 2011, Pope Benedict XVI said in a book that there was no basis in the scripture for the belief that Jews were responsible for the death of Jesus Christ.

From New York Times

However, according to sources familiar with Francis' thinking, the pontiff is determined to avoid a scenario in which two popes are alive simultaneously - something which occurred when his predecessor Benedict XVI took the highly unusual decision of stepping down in 2013.

From BBC

Having Francis as pope while Benedict XVI was still alive led to considerable friction within the Church, particularly between conservatives and more liberal-minded members of the clergy.

From BBC

Over the past two years, Francis has indicated several times that he would be ready to step down, following the example of his predecessor, Benedict XVI, if his health deteriorates to the point that it becomes an impediment to him leading the Catholic Church.

From Seattle Times

He noted that the actual process opened in 1905, and that it was Pope Benedict XVI who put her on the path to possible sainthood when he declared her venerable in 2010.

From Seattle Times