Pope Benedict XVI, who turns 85 today and celebrates seven years as pope this week, has long been considered a guardian of the faith, upholding the traditional teachings of the church leading the clergy in the defense of the faith. Regarded one of the sharpest theologians in the church both before and during his pontificate, ...read more

On April 19th, 2005 Cardinal Joseph Ratzinger became Pope Benedict XVI. Catholic News Service’s Rome Bureau Chief John Thavis reflects on the Holy Father’s six year pontificate. To download Flash Player please click here ...read more