FORT WALTON BEACH — The small group of attendees to Monday morning’s Mass at Saint Mary Catholic Church said a special prayer for the next man to step into the role of pope.
Members of the Catholic church were stunned when the announcement of Pope Benedict XVI’s resignation was made. He is the first pope in 600 years to step down from the position.
“I was surprised when I heard the news,” said Elia Saxer. “I thought he was a good leader because he upheld the teachings of the Catholic church.”
Gloria Conrad said the announcement of the resignation was initially a shock, but she said Pope Benedict always had intentions of stepping down should he not be able to fulfill the duties of the pope.
“In many ways, I think it was wise,” Conrad said. “I hope the successor isn’t someone extremely conservative, but I don’t have anyone in particular in mind.”
Mass attendees on Monday morning said they trust the process to elect a successor to Pope Benedict XVI. The resignation will call for a conclave to elect a new pope by mid-March.
“I pray we will get a great successor. We need a person who is equipped to handle the position,” said Lancy Colaco. “What (God) does he does best, so we now pray for our Pope Benedict and his successor.”
Contact Daily News Staff Writer Angel McCurdy at 850-315-4432 or amccurdy@nwfdailynews.com. Follow her on Twitter @AngelMnwfdn.