Pope Benedict’s surprise announcement caught almost everyone off guard. For this to happen as the first retirement in 600 years shows the rarity of such a move. Popes, like so many Protestants in the pulpit, are frequently guilty of overstaying their time. When one is feeble and unable to perform ministerial chores effectively, the health of the ministry needs to be considered. Many clergy have killed what they built up by holding a congregation hostage. The wise clergy person will prepare for a graceful exit so that the valuable work of the Kingdom of God can continue in an effective fashion. To give up pastoral responsibility does not mean that one ceases to be a minister. Many less demanding tasks can be done for ministry and should be done by the God-called minister until death. I applaud the Pope’s decision. I believe he has set a wonderful precedent for Christendom