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NUNAVUT
Surprising but supportive is the reaction of two Catholic priests and one Christian leader in Nunavut to the Pope's resignation last week.

Pope Benedict XVI has announced his resignation, effective Feb. 28. - photo courtesy of Wikimedia Commons

Pope Benedict XVI has resigned as head of the Roman Catholic Church, effective Feb. 28, saying his failing health is making it more difficult to fulfill his papal duties.

Father Daniel Perreault of Our Lady of the Assumption Catholic Church in Iqaluit said he was "surprised" to learn of the Holy Father's resignation but remembers there were signs it could happen. He recalled one year ago, the Pope had mentioned he would not hesitate to resign if he were unable to properly fulfill his duties because of health reasons.

"It is what he has done but I didn't think he was about to do this so quickly but I understand very well," he said. "We will pray for him. We will pray for the cardinals who have the very important task to choose a new pope."

The Pope's resignation will make it easier for his successors to resign if they feel they can't fulfill their papal duties, said Perreault.

"For me, it's a very courageous decision," he said. "I think Pope Benedict opens a gate for the next popes. It will be easier after that, if they feel they should resign because they are not able to."

Father Tony Krotki of St. Stephen's Church in Iglulik said they had not expected the Pope to resign, so the news came as a surprise, also because they don't exactly know the health status of the Pope.

"It was a shock and surprise but being believers, being Christians, we also respect the decision of the Holy Father," he said. "Out of love, we wish him ... a blessing, a time of reflection and to be with us as long as possible. We are supporting the church in accepting the decision of the Holy Father and we are hoping the new Pope will be elected soon."

He said he sees the residents of Iglulik are trying to understand the reasons behind the Pope's resignation. Krotki said he planned to mention it during the Ash Wednesday service, Feb. 13.

"I would like people to have a right understanding of it, rather than listening to all kinds of talks, which may not always be the right understanding of the situation," he said.

Kugaaruk resident Sidonie Nirlungayuk and her husband Barthelemy received an apostolic blessing from Pope Benedict XVI last year to mark their 50th wedding anniversary. Sidonie has been the Christian leader with the Kugaaruk Roman Catholic parish for 40 years.

Sidonie was surprised to hear about the Pope's resignation, but understands he's getting old and knows the church will find someone to fill the role, she said in Inuktitut, translated through her daughter. She said she accepts the fact he wants to resign.

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