Today as we mourn the passing of Pope Emeritus Benedict, we also give thanks to God for this rich papacy and pray for his soul. 

It is also a day to note the one reference we know of to Fr Willie in his writings. Introduction to Christianity was one of Joseph Ratzinger’s most famous and significant books. First published in 1968, it brought Joseph Ratzinger to a wider audience. In a section of the text dealing with St Therese and her Little Way, he refers to:

…these striking words of the Irish Jesuit William Doyle, who was born in the same year as Therese and fell at Ypres in 1917: “I do not believe I could ever find food for vain glory or pride in anything I do – anymore than an organ grinder can take pride in  the beauty beautiful music he produces when he turns to handle…. I feel ashamed when people praise me.. just as a piano might feel ashamed if someone were to compliment it and the beautiful music that flows from its keys.”

How apt that the eye of the music loving Ratzinger would be drawn to this particular quote!