Cardinal Ratzinger, as Prefect and Theologian

That's the focus of this ZENIT interview with Mark Brumley, president of Ignatius Press. An excerpt:

Q: What will Pope Benedict XVI bring of himself and his theological interests to the pontificate?

Brumley: Although Ratzinger the prefect is distinguishable from Ratzinger the theologian, we are blessed in Pope Benedict XVI with a theologian and pastor who has thought and prayed long and hard about Jesus Christ, the Church and her mission to the world.

He will, I believe, continue the twofold task of Vatican II -- renewing the inner life of the Church and reinvigorating the Church's mission in the world. He is committed to a renewal of biblical studies and a deepening of ordinary Catholics' appreciation of and participation in the sacred liturgy.

He staunchly proclaims the universal call to holiness of Vatican II. He understands the importance of dialogue among Christians and dialogue with world religions and seekers, while he upholds the integrity of Catholic faith and insists on a renewed missionary drive to spread the gospel of Jesus Christ to the world.

And he knows that in the areas of morality and social justice, the Christian message has not been tried and found wanting, as G.K. Chesterton noted, but has been found difficult and left untried. Furthermore, he sees the threat of radical relativism and many other "isms."

While Mark is not nearly as catty as Maureen Dowd (see below), he is far nicer and actually knows what he is talking about, a trait I always find refreshing.

Comments

[Ed Peters]

Mark, what are the chances of Benedict retaining immediate direction of CDF himself?

[Mark Brumley]

Possible. That seems to be the rumor. We'll see.