I mentioned in a recent post that Monsignor Alfred Xuereb, Papal Secretary to both our Holy Father Pope Francis and Pope Emeritus Benedict, had participated in the launch for the Pope Emeritus’ new book on human ecology.
The monsignor recounted how Benedict “would melt in front of animals, in nature; he liked to stand outside when we would go for a picnic,” adding that he appreciates not only cats, “but has love for all animals.”
He told of how they were once walking in the Vatican Gardens praying the Rosary, and they noticed a particular bird that the Holy Father suggested they photograph. “When he saw the photos, his expression was of marvel,” and he insisted that they be published in L’Osservatore Romano…
“To recognize creation as God’s gift to humanity helps us to understand the vocation and worth of man,” he concluded. “It makes no sense to care for nature, for plants and then despise man. Respect for man, as a consequence, leads to respect for nature.”
It looks like the book is only in Italian for the moment, unfortunately. The National Catholic Register has the story.
Great blog