In a statement marking the pope’s retirement, President Barack Obama said, “I have appreciate our work together over these last four years.”
“On behalf of Americans everywhere, Michelle and I wish to extend our appreciation and prayers to His Holiness Pope Benedict XVI. Michelle and I warmly remember our meeting with the Holy Father in 2009, and I have appreciated our work together over these last four years. The Church plays a critical role in the United States and the world, and I wish the best to those who will soon gather to choose His Holiness Pope Benedict XVI’s successor,” Obama’s full statement reads.
The pope announced his retirement today, and he plans to step down at the end of the month. It’s the first time in 600 years a pope has retired.
