Congressmen want to commemorate life, service of Benedict XVI

Pope Francis has been pope for less than a week, but a group of Congressmen want to commemorate the life and service of former Pope Benedict XVI, now the pope emeritus.

The bi-partisan group has introduced a House resolution to honor Benedict and also congratulate Pope Francis on his election as head of the 1.2-billion member Catholic Church.

“As a Roman Catholic, I’m filled with joy and excitement at the election of Pope Francis,” U.S. Rep. Michael G. Grimm, R-New York, said in a statement. “Known for his humble origins, personal work ministering to the poor and unique reputation as a man of and for the people, His Holiness has the qualities required to lead with humility and sincerity while spreading Christ’s message of peace, love, and forgiveness in the modern world.  As the representative from a predominately Catholic district, I join with my constituents and my colleagues in celebrating the historic election of Pope Francis and embracing his unique opportunity to unite Catholics worldwide in a new-found hope and fellowship.”

Rep. Grimm is the author and sponsor of the resolution. U.S. Reps. Bill Pascrell Jr., D-New Jersey; Patrick Tiberi, R-Ohio; and Daniel Lipinski, D-Illinois.

All four co-sponsors are Catholic.