The former pope, whose name was Joseph Ratzinger, served at the Vatican between 2005 and 2013, before retiring due to ill health.
The Director of the Catholic International Magazine (Messenger of Anthony), Mario Conte, announced on his Twitter page, @FriarMario, that the funeral of the late pope will take place on January 5, 2023, at the St Peter’s Square with Pope Francis presiding.
Also, the King of England, Charles George, ‘sent his good wishes’ to Pope Francis over the loss of Pope Benedict XVI. Recalling the role Benedict played in strengthening relations between the Vatican and the United Kingdom, the monarch wrote on the official website of the palace, “I recall his constant efforts to promote peace and goodwill to all people, and to strengthen the relationship between the global Anglican Communion and the Roman Catholic Church.”
The British Prime Minister, Rishi Sunak, also tweeted, “He was a great theologian whose visit to the UK in 2010 was a historic moment for both Catholics and non-Catholics throughout our country.”
On his part, Frank-Walter Steinmeier, the president of Germany, Benedict’s home country, wrote, “He particularly cared about the unity of Christendom and the dialogue of religions, the connection between religion and society.
“He sought dialogue with Jews, Muslims, and all Christian denominations worldwide.”
Meanwhile, in his tribute to Benedict, the presidential candidate of the Labour Party, Peter Obi, wrote on Twitter, “His service to God and humanity as a priest, archbishop, cardinal, and pope bore eloquent witness to his genuine love for God and man. Rest on, Pope Benedict XVI. –PO.”