Very few people can say that they personally know Benedict XVI. But his former students are definitely part of that select group. They're hoping the Pope emeritus will join them this year, for their annual theological meeting in Castel Gandolfo from August 21st to the 24th.
FR. STEPHAN OTTO HORN
Ratzinger Schí¼lerkreis' Coordinator
'We hope he comes this year, but that also depends on his health. We are almost like his family. He's very close to us.â?
Since his resignation, Benedict XVI has not attended these annual meetings with his former students. But he did celebrate Mass with them in the Vatican.
FR. STEPHAN OTTO HORN
Ratzinger Schí¼lerkreis' Coordinator
'He looked like a man of his age: not particularly strong, but quite lucid, as always. His memory is still strong, he remembers everything.â?
The so-called 'Ratzinger Schí¼lerkreis' was founded by Benedict XVI's former students. They made it a point to keep studying Theology guided by his books and teachings. Every year they hold a gathering, where they discuss a specific topic. The theme of this year will be the Theology of the Cross.
Most recently new members were admitted into the group. They had never attended a class of Joseph Ratzinger, but just like thousands, they've studied his work and have been intrigued, moved and challenged by it.
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