The Catholic Church

The Catholic Church dates back almost 2000 years and is the oldest institution in the western world. At its head now is Pope Benedict XVI, Joseph Ratzinger of Germany. He became head of the Church on the 19th April 2005. The message before he was first seen is below

Apostolic Blessing "Urbi et Orbi" (April 19, 2005)

Dear Brothers and Sisters,

After the great Pope John Paul II, the Cardinals have elected me, a simple and humble labourer in the vineyard of the Lord.

The fact that the Lord knows how to work and to act even with inadequate instruments comforts me, and above all I entrust myself to your prayers.

Let us move forward in the joy of the Risen Lord, confident of his unfailing help. The Lord will help us and Mary, his Most Holy Mother, will be on our side. Thank you.

For more details on the Catholic Church visit

http://www.vatican.va/

or for a British perspective

www.bbc.co.uk/religion
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The first sighting of

POPE BENEDICT XVI
 
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