Benedict XVI: Pope and Theologian

The following quote is taken from "Our Theologian Pope", an article that was written by Msgr. David Q. Liptak for Faith Perspectives, which is a column in The Catholic Transcript, the newspaper of the Archdiocese of Hartford.

The Church these days continues to be especially blessed in our Holy Father, Pope Benedict XVI, who, like his predecessor, Blessed Pope John Paul II, ranks as a world-class theologian. John Paul’s expertise was in moral theology; he is still referred to as the Ethician of Lublin (a reference to his professional status). Benedict’s academic stature stands out in doctrinal fundamentals, Biblical exegesis, sacramental theology, ecclesiology and Christology.

His most recent book (March 2011), Jesus of Nazareth, Volume II, is a spectacular course in Christology. As an internationally revered theologian, and as Pope, he helps us to understand, more accurately and intensely than ever before, the signal events of Holy Week, from the entrance into Jerusalem and the Last Supper through to Jesus’ death and Resurrection. While these events are all mysteries of faith, which we embrace wholeheartedly as Catholics, they become more and more comprehensible through Pope Benedict’s pen.