On Sunday, Dec. 31, 2024, Cardinal Kurt Koch presided over a solemn pontifical Mass at the tomb of Pope Benedict XVI in St. Peter’s Basilica, commemorating the second anniversary of the pope emeritus’ death. The celebration marked a moment of profound reflection and gratitude for the legacy of the Bavarian pope, whose theological insights and pastoral dedication continue to inspire the Church.
A Tomb Close to the Apostles
The tomb of Pope Benedict XVI rests in the Vatican grottos, mere meters from the resting place of St. Peter, the Prince of the Apostles. This proximity underscores the continuity of the Petrine ministry and the enduring faithfulness of Joseph Ratzinger to his calling as a successor of Peter.
Cardinal Koch, prefect of the Dicastery for Promoting Christian Unity, celebrated the Mass with readings and prayers that resonated deeply with the life and teachings of Pope Benedict XVI. The event was streamed live by EWTN Germany, allowing Catholics worldwide to participate in the solemn remembrance.
A Life Centered on the Logos
The homily, delivered by Cardinal Koch, reflected on the liturgical reading of the day: the prologue of John’s Gospel, which proclaims the Word made flesh. “In this hymn of praise to the Logos, to the Word that was with God and was God, the innermost core of the Christian faith is condensed,” Koch said. “Joseph Ratzinger — Benedict XVI — reflected on this throughout his life and revealed it to us.”
Benedict XVI’s theological contributions, particularly his exploration of the Logos, have left a lasting impact on the Church. Cardinal Koch emphasized that for the late pope, making God accessible to modern people was a priority. “For the faithful theologian on the chair of Peter, there could be no greater priority than to show people today an access to God, his truth and beauty,” Koch said.
The Mystery of Easter and a “Second Birth”
Reflecting on the timing of Benedict’s death, Koch noted the deep significance of Christmas for the pope emeritus. He passed away at 9:34 a.m. on Dec. 31, 2022, in the Mater Ecclesiae monastery, where he had lived since his resignation in 2013. Koch remarked that Benedict “entered fully into the mystery of Easter on the day of his ‘second birth’ during Christmas, which had always held special significance for him.”
Benedict XVI’s pontificate, which spanned from 2005 to 2013, was marked by his historic resignation—the first by a pope in nearly six centuries. However, his influence extended far beyond his years as pope. As a young theologian, Joseph Ratzinger contributed significantly to the Second Vatican Council, and as prefect of the Congregation for the Doctrine of the Faith, he shaped the Church’s theological discourse for decades.
A Moment of Silent Prayer
The Mass concluded with a solemn moment of prayer at Benedict XVI’s tomb. Cardinal Koch paused in silence, joining the faithful gathered in prayerful remembrance of a shepherd who dedicated his life to deepening the Church’s understanding of Christ and guiding souls toward God.
As the Church remembers Benedict XVI on this anniversary, his words and works continue to echo in the hearts of the faithful, drawing them closer to the mystery of the Word made flesh. Cardinal Koch’s reflections and the commemorative Mass underscore the enduring relevance of Benedict’s mission to reveal God’s truth and beauty to the modern world.
