2.+Catholics+Say+Good+Bye+to+an+Icon

On April 2, 2005 Pope John Paul II died at age 84. Catholics from around the world began to flood St. Peter’s Square in order to pay their respects for their beloved pope, as well as to eagerly wait the naming of their new leader. However, as to conform to tradition, onlookers would have to wait at least nine days until they could find out who they’d be receiving their spiritual leadership and guidance from. According to the Vatican, Cardinals must participate in a nine-day official mourning period before they can cast their vote for the new Pontiff. Cardinals Elect New Leader** Tuesday, April 19, 2005 marked a new day for the Catholic community in the world. The College of Cardinals named Cardinal Joseph Ratzinger of Germany, their new Pope and upon assuming his new position he chose to assume the name Benedict XVI. Ratzinger’s election came following one of the shortest conclaves in the history of the Catholic Church. Benedict XVI becomes the church’s 265th pontiff and the first German to hold the honor since the 11th century. Leaders around the world reacted in different ways to this election and in the United States governmental leaders expressed feelings of optimism. President George Bush wished Ratzinger luck in his new endeavour and remembered John Paul II with great fondness. Around the world, Catholics also reacted to the naming of their new leader. Feelings were mixed as many Latinos thought that it was time for a Latin Pope. Many also believed that Ratzinger could have put the brakes on “any progressive movements that were occurring in the church.”
 * Catholics Say Good-Bye to an Icon**
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