Cardinal Timothy Dolan, Archbishop of New York, released the following statement today after learning of the passing of Pope Emeritus Benedict XVI.

“The human family grieves the passing of this erudite, wise, and holy man, who spoke the truth with love;

The family of the Church especially mourns his death, while grateful for the gift he was of a good shepherd and Holy Father;

This archdiocese remembers with love his pastoral visit here in 2008;

I personally sense the loss as he was so encouraging, and appointed me Archbishop of New York and nominated me a Cardinal.

Faith and reason, the legacy of Pope Benedict XVI, whom we remember with reverence, love, and gratitude.

I ask every parish in the archdiocese to offer a Mass for the Good Lord’s mercy upon his gracious soul, and in thanksgiving for his vocation as Successor of St. Peter.

May the angels lead him into paradise!”