[ebb tide]

Only as an aside, I would like to note my surprise at the fact that among the authors is also Professor Hünermann, who during my pontificate had distinguished himself by leading anti-papal initiatives. He played a major part in the release of the “Kölner Erklärung”, which, in relation to the encyclical “Veritatis splendour”, virulently attacked the magisterial authority of the Pope, especially on questions of moral theology. Also the “Europaische Theologengesellschaft”, which he founded, was initially conceived by him as an organization in opposition to the papal magisterium. Later, the ecclesial sentiment of many theologians prevented this orientation, allowing that organization to become a normal instrument of encounter among theologians.

I am sure you will understand my refusal and I offer you cordial greetings.

Yours,

Benedict XVI

[faithhopecharity]

Ha! It’s no wonder I havent been called to be pope. Pope Benedict has always been a very polished, skilled writer. I’d just have said “screw you!”

[NobleFree]

I don't think he was one bit surprised.

[Mrs. Don-o]

I admit I just skimmed the article, but I'm confused. Is "Only as an aside..." actually what Benedict wrote in the original letter? Or who wrote it? It's pretty on-the-nose!

[Mrs. Don-o]

Oh, hot cross buns! I just googled it, and Benedict DID write that paragraph!

And they dared to omit it!!

These FrancisWeasels aren't just flagrantly dishonest, but if they thought they would get away with it, they're jaw-droppingly incompetent.

Un-

be-

lieve-

bly

stupid.

I wonder if Benedict will permit himself the pleasure of some highly finessed way to say "Gotcha".