Robert McClory, ex-priest, talks about pope's resignation
Robert McClory (Photo courtesy of the National Catholic
Reporter)  Robert McClory is a former priest who has written
prolifically about the Catholic Church.  Here he talks about his
response to Pope Benedict’s sudden resignation, the challenges
the church faces and who could be the next pope.  Why did Pope
Benedict [resign] now, during the holiest time of the year?  I
think he decided that he couldn’t continue the job of Pope at
the level he wanted to.  I don’t think there was any necessary
connection between  the decision and the time of year.  I give
him a lot of courage and common sense for saying he should
resign.  In the last 700 years, no pope has resigned.  In some
cases, they should have resigned.  It’s a mark of his character
to say he’s not the one to lead the institution any more.  I
think that’s great.  Is this decision in keeping with his
character?  It certainly is in keeping. He’s been consistent
since he’s been pope, and before that wh