Essential Pope Benedict 16th

In 2006, Cardinal Joseph Ratzinger was elected Bishop of Rome and took the name Benedict XVI. At age 78 he was personally surprised by his election, which delighted conservatives as a sign of continuity in the Church, and dismayed liberals, who had hoped for many changes upon the passing of John Paul II. This one-volume compendium, culled from Ratzinger’s writings and speeches, is the best source for understanding the concerns that will animate the agenda of this controversial pontiff.