With the concentration of power in Rome, perhaps the responsibilities of the papacy are not simply too much for a person of Benedict's age, but for any one person.
The unique features of the modern papacy must be considered when analyzing Benedict's resignation -- including issues of collegiality, age, and secular power.
A closer look at both the secret text of the Vatican regarding clerical crimes of solicitation and the confusing lack of authority in dealing with these crimes.
A look at the recently re-published writings of Ratzinger during Vatican II, and how his stances on certain issues have or have not changed since becoming pope.
Benedict's encyclical makes 5 distinct contributions to the church's social teaching, none of which should be narrowly interpreted for specific political purposes.
