Former Pope Benedict XVI will remove his name as co-author of a book seen as undercutting his successor Pope Francis, according to a statement from the other author of the book, Cardinal Robert Sarah.
The book, titled"From the Depths of Our Hearts," argues in favor of the centuries-old tradition of celibacy within the church, defending the ability to"put oneself completely at the disposition of the Lord" as a criterion for those wishing to be ordained as priests.The release of the book, which will be published Wednesday in French, comes as Pope Francis considers whether to ease the church's ban on married men serving as priests in certain cases.
Read More"We can say: 'Silere non possum! I cannot remain silent!'" Benedict and Sarah wrote in the joint introduction to the book, according to excerpts released by French daily newspaper Le Figaro on Sunday.Benedict also wrote that he believes celibacy carries"great significance" and is"truly essential" as a priest's path to God becomes the foundation of his life.
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