AUSTRALIA
Canberra Times
Pope Benedict XVI will lose his infallibility – his supreme authority in Church matters – as soon he steps down on February 28, the Vatican says as it struggles to explain a virtually unprecedented situation.
“These powers go with the office, so they will pass to the next pope…. Whoever renounces no longer has the assistance of the Holy Spirit to guide the Universal Church,” Vatican spokesman Federico Lombardi said at a briefing.
The issue is complex for many Catholics who believe the election of a pope is divinely inspired and are accustomed to popes remaining in office until death.
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