Pope Screens Film on First Five Years of Pontificate

(30 Jul 10 – RV) Pope Benedict XVI was treated yesterday evening to a special screening of a film documenting the first five years of his pontificate.

The film was screened at the Papal retreat outside Rome in the hill town of  Castel Gandalfo, where the Holy Father is spending the Summer months.

In remarks following the screening, the Holy Father thanked the documentary’s producers at Bavarian Radio, along with writer/director Michael Malik and executive producer Gerhard Fuchs.

Pope Benedict said it was especially moving for him to see scenes from his election to the Papacy, saying the Petrine ministry is a burden that no one can bear by his own, and that one can only carry it with the strength and support of the Lord.

He went on to say the film portrays the richness of the Church’s life, and is a reminder that the mission of Peter in the Church is to render the unity of the Church in visible and concrete, now and forever.

Though suffering much in the present, said Pope Benedict, the Church is a joyous Church, not old, but young – and that faith creates joy. Hear more: