Pope Benedict XVI
Joseph Ratzinger was a German theologian who became Pope Benedict XVI in 2005. He led the Catholic Church until his resignation in 2013, later holding the title pope emeritus until his death.
Scholar and church leader
Ratzinger studied philosophy and theology, taught at German universities, and took part in the Second Vatican Council as a theological expert. He later served as archbishop of Munich and Freising and as prefect of the Vatican congregation responsible for doctrine.
Papacy and legacy
Elected pope in 2005, Benedict XVI wrote on faith, reason, and Christian life. In 2013 he announced that he would resign, becoming the first pope in centuries to do so. His career joined academic theology with senior Church leadership.
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