"Dear brothers and sisters, after the great Pope John Paul II, the cardinals have elected me - a simple, humble worker in the vineyard of the Lord"
- Joseph Ratzinger
About this Quote
This quote by Joseph Ratzinger, that later ended up being Pope Benedict XVI, speaks with his humbleness as well as his belief. He recognizes that he is a "simple, simple worker in the vineyard of the Lord," which he was chosen by the cardinals to do well Pope John Paul II. Ratzinger's humbleness is evident in his selection of words, as he describes himself as a "employee" in the Lord's winery. This recommends that he sees himself as a servant of God, and that he is not looking for power or status. Ratzinger's belief is additionally obvious in his words, as he acknowledges that he is working in the Lord's winery. This recommends that he believes that his election belonged to God's strategy, which he is willing to accept the duty of leading the Catholic Church. Ratzinger's humility as well as belief are remarkable top qualities, and also his words demonstrate his dedication to offering God and the Church.
"To be really great in little things, to be truly noble and heroic in the insipid details of everyday life, is a virtue so rare as to be worthy of canonization"
"Having soon discovered to be great, I must appear so, and therefore studiously avoided mixing in society, and wrapped myself in mystery, devoting my time to fasting and prayer"