2010 Sierra Leone Pope Benedict

Mint Stamps Commemorate
Pope Benedict XVI

This mint stamp sheet features scenes from Pope Benedict's visit to the United Kingdom in September 2010.

Pope Benedict’s inauguration took place on April 24, 2005.  After paying his respects at the Tomb of St. Peter, the Pope and Cardinals went to Saint Peter’s Square for the Inauguration Mass.  Here, Pope Benedict received the pallium (a wool band worn around the neck) and the Ring of the Fisherman (all Popes are considered successors of St. Peter, who was a fisherman).  In the homily of his inaugural mass, Benedict stressed the importance of allowing Christ into one’s life, saying, “Open wide the doors to Christ – and you will find true life.”

After serving as Pope for almost eight years, Benedict announced his resignation on February 11, 2013.  He was the first Pope to resign in almost 600 years.