The Community of Sant'Egidio is close, with filial affection, to Pope Benedict XVI. Welcomes with respect and trust his decision, the result of a long meditation in prayer.

Expresses its gratitude for paternity, affection and friendship with which the Pope has accompanied the life of the Community in recent years.

Gratitude is also for the love for the Word of God, the love for the poor, the powerful teaching and the meekness that characterized the years of the pontificate. The Community prays in this time in a special way for the Pope and for the Church.