MO HR508

Expresses sincere appreciation and gratitude from the Missouri House of Representatives for Pope Benedict XVI and his legacy upon his resignation from the papacy on February 28, 2013.

Acknowledges Pope Benedict XVI's (Joseph Aloisius Ratzinger) life including his birth in Germany on April 16, 1927, military service in World War II, ordination as a priest in 1951, and elevation to Cardinal in 1977.

Recognizes his service as Prefect of the Congregation for the Doctrine of Faith beginning in 1981 and his election as the 265th Pope of the Roman Catholic Church on April 19, 2005.

Highlights his teaching on friendship with Jesus Christ, his encyclical Deus Caritas Est, his passion for classical music (particularly Mozart), and his personal interests including playing piano and fondness for cats.

Directs the Chief Clerk of the Missouri House of Representatives to prepare an inscribed copy of the resolution for delivery to Pope Benedict XVI.