Holy Trinity Pastor Calls Pope's Resignation 'Act of Grace'

This story was updated at 7:45 p.m. Tuesday to include comments made by Rev. Michael Saporito, pastor of St. Helen's Roman Catholic Church. 

After eight years of service, the Vatican announced early Monday that Pope Benedict XVI would resign at the end of the month.

Rev. Msgr. Joseph P. Masiello, pastor of Holy Trinity Church in Westfield, shared his view on the pontiff's announcement.

"To my mind and heart, the Pope's resignation is a monumental act of courage, humility, and grace---and a game-changer for the Papacy," Masiello said. "By reversing hundreds of years of tradition, Pope Benedict makes resignation/retirement that much easier for his successors to deal with. And, of course, whenever there is a change at the top, it remains to be seen where the Divine Spirit will lead the leader---and the followers."

St. Helen's pastor Rev. Michael Saporito, who echoed Masiello's sentiments, said he was "stunned" by the news.

"It was something I had never anticipated," Saporito told Patch Tuesday. "I believe this was a prayerful and well thought out decision on the Pope’s part. One thing is for sure, this will definitely open the door to similar future announcements and might even impact the choice of a successor. With people living longer and with the demands of the office, I believe this decision is good for Pope Benedict himself and for the whole Church."

In a CNN report Benedict, 85, said he is unable to fulfill the ministry due to advanced age. This is the first time a pope has stepped down in 600 years, according to reports.

"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 fulfill the ministry entrusted to me," said Benedict in the CNN report obtained from the Vatican.

Students at Holy Trinity Interparochial School, with campuses in Westfield and Mountainside, are on 'Pope Watch' as the complex series of events that leads to the election of the new head of the Roman Catholic Church is set in motion. The Huffington Post yesterday outlined the procedure that must begin 15-20 days after Benedict's Feb. 28 resignation and ends with white smoke emanating from the chimney of the Sistine Chapel, a signal that a new pope has been chosen. To learn more, click here.

"All students of Holy Trinity Interparochial School have been asked to pray for the Pope," said Mary Kay Cullinan, who teaches religion and history at the school. "Older students have explored the articles and video news broadcasts surrounding the Pope's resignation. Students will also be on 'Pope Watch' to explore the convening of the conclave to elect a new Pope."

Check back with Westfield Patch as we update this article with more information from pastors, religious educators and Catholics in Westfield.

What do you think about the Pope’s resignation? Tell us in the comments.