The sudden resignation of the pope or abdication of his authority or papacy or reign came to all Catholic faithful and indeed religious people all over the world as a shock. This the pontiff attributed to old age and his inability to be strong to continue in his capacity as Saint Peter’s successor and head of the Catholic fold.
This hasn't happened in the history of the church for 400 years. This brings to mind the recent retirement of His eminence Anthony Cardinal Okojie, Emeritus Archbishop of Lagos, and many other religious and clergymen.
Maturity and an understanding of the rigors associated with their offices informed their decisions. Our prayers is for the Catholics all over the world to be guided by God to have a worthy successor to the pope and grant the pope blessings, favors and sound health in retirement. This we import to our own situation in Nigeria albeit Africa where our leaders and men in authority sit tight and want perpetuation or die in power. Being an ex-leader makes one’s input and opinions well-sought after and encourages one to put one’s house in order in case of the eventuality.
Leadership is about service even in retirement; elder statesmen and other men and women of repute are always a crown to the development of any community or nation. Like the saying goes, health is wealth. Our leaders should know when to call it quits or draw the curtain on their careers for it is better and far honorable to bequeath a legacy in one’s lifetime. A word, they say, is enough for the wise.
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