Local churches react to Pope Benedict's resignation - WAOW - Newsline 9, Wausau News, Weather, Sports

The Pope's announcement has Catholic Churches around the world buzzing, which includes those in Central Wisconsin.

Priests at St. Anne Catholic Church in Wausau say the announcement was a shock, especially since Pope Benedict XVI is stepping down after less than eight years in office.

"It did catch me by surprise, but I certainly support the Holy Father in his decision," St. Anne Catholic Church Rev. Jeffrey Hennes said.

"I feel he's being responsible in saying, ‘I can't do the job right now,'" Newman Catholic High School Campus Minister Joy Orozco said.

Orozco says it's important to remember the pope for his accomplishments.

"What we need to concentrate on is being grateful for the time he has given us, for the leadership that he has given us," Orozco said.

In the halls of Newman Catholic hangs a picture of the Pope. School leader say it's a constant reminder of the importance of this leadership to the Catholic Church.

"He's doing what's best for us. Sometimes taking a step back sometimes is the best thing for us," Orozco told Newsline 9.

Newman Catholic High School ministers say students have been asking questions.

"Whenever we've had to elect a pope, there's a sense of 'where's our leader? We are like a flock without a Shepherd right now," Orozco said.

But now, religious leaders say it's about looking ahead.

"The beauty of the church is, we've had a Pope for 2,000 years and we will continue to have a Pope until Jesus Christ returns," Rev. Hennes said.

Priests at St. Anne say they plan to bring up the Pope's resignation at services later this week.