Al-Rahi Hails Pope's Resignation Decision, Says it Sets an Example to All

Maronite Patriarch Beshara al-Rahi praised on Wednesday Pope Benedict XVI's resignation decision, considering that his announcement left a “positive shock in the hearts.”

Describing him as an “ideal leader,” al-Rahi said: “The pope is giving us a great example about faith and modesty.”

He said the decision sets an “example to every one serving the church, the society and the states.”

“We thank the pope and pray for him,” the patriarch stated.

The 85-year-old Benedict said on Monday that he would step down on February 28 because of his advancing age.

Vatican spokesman Federico Lombardi has said he expects a new pope in place in time for Easter, which falls on March 31 this year.

Secretary of State Tarcisio Bertone will govern the Church during the transition.

In the meantime, the outgoing pontiff will honor his existing engagements.

Benedict's decision to step down -- making him the first pontiff in 700 years to resign simply because he cannot carry on -- sparked a flurry of rumors over his health, fed by revelations that he had had an operation to replace the batteries in his pacemaker three months ago.

On Tuesday, President Michel Suleiman stated that the Lebanese will be among the people who will most miss Pope Benedict XVI.

He saluted his “bold and wise decision.”

Suleiman hoped that Lebanon “will remain in the heart of Pope Benedict”, wishing him health and a long life.

The pope paid a three-day visit to Lebanon in September.