The 143rd Pope
Benedict VIII
Pope Benedict VIII (1012–1024) – Throughout his twelve-year reign, Pope Benedict was involved in a wide range of secular and ecclesiastical activities. A significant portion of Italy composed the Papal States, Pope Benedict would be much involved with the administration (political} and defense (military) of that territory. He held a synod in Revanna which condemned simony and established a minimum age for the reception of Holy Orders. He went on campaign in the role as military leader consolidating his political power. Saracen pirates were harassing northern Italian cities, the pope personally led naval forces against them. Sardinia also would be liberated by the pope. Pope Benedict diplomatically established warm relations with the German emperor. At the Synod of Pavia (1022), clerical marriage was prohibited. Historians took note of the great power of Pope Benedict but measured his power as political and military and that it was not blended easily into the ecclesial ministry expected of a pope. As the Church entered the Second Millennium, we gain more historical documents and greater personal insights regarding those who served as pope. Popes have been the victim of false charges, forged letters, misunderstandings, political intrigues, and hostile actions; they, regrettably, have rightfully been accused of actions most unfitting for an occupant of the Chair of Peter. Pray for the men who wear the white cassock that their humanness may reflect holiness. Pope Benedict VIII was buried in the basilica of Saint Peter.
Habemus papam