The Coming of the Last Pope

The announcement of the Vatican regarding the resignation of Pope Benedict XVI took the world by surprise. It was all over the news – CNN, BBC, REUTERS and so on. The spokesperson of Vatican, Fr. Federico Lombardi said that the pope would continue to carry out his duties until Feb. 28 at 8 p.m., and that a successor would likely be elected by Easter, which falls on March 31.

(Osservatore Romano, via European Pressphoto Agency)

Pope Benedict XVI asked for forgiveness as he announced his resignation, effective Feb. 28

"In today’s world, subject to so many rapid changes and shaken by questions of deep relevance for the life of faith, in order to govern the bark of St. Peter and proclaim the gospel, both strength of mind and body are necessary, strength which in the last few months has deteriorated in me to the extent that I have had to recognize my incapacity to adequately fulfil the ministry entrusted to me.  For this reason, and well aware of the seriousness of this act, with full freedom, I declare that I renounce the ministry of bishop of Rome, successor of St. Peter."

I’m not an aficionado of Pope Benedict XVI because I grew up admiring John Paul II for his love for the youth and the Filipinos; however upon knowing his reason for stepping out of the papacy, I instantly gave him high regard. He knew that to govern the Catholic Church effectively, he should have strong mind and body. This is definitely a courageous and responsible act. I don’t know the pontiff that much. I was never interested. But, as I read articles and biographies about him, I got to know him better. He stressed on continuing the living tradition and encouraging greater reverence and beauty in the Mass. He was the guardian of the Truth and the keeper of the Old Rite.

With the new election of the new pontiff coming soon, will this means that we are nearing the End of Times? St. Malachy had a vision about last 112 popes that will govern the Catholic Church, the second to the last, if the prophecy is true, is the Pope Benedict XVI – the Glory of the Olive. The successor His successor, listed as 'Petrus Romanus', foretold as being the last Pope, and in some interpretations, as Satan become man; leading his flock unwittingly to the tribulations proceeding the 'end of the world' and the Final Judgement.

This is sound eerie. We just survived the Mayan Prophecies and the Asteroid Toutatis almost hit the earth, and now this? I can’t afford to see my wacky little monsters suffered from any catastrophes or famines. It would definitely break my heart. However, the best thing to do than to be scared is to renew our faith and be closer to God. Jesus promised that He will spare those who believe in Him.