I am the Jesuit superior of a community with an average age of just over 82 years. In three years in the role I have seen a wide range of attitudes toward peoples’ approach to the end of their life and the diminishment of their mind or body. Some accept the situation with serenity and are grateful for more time to pray and read.

Others rage against what is happening, thinking that they can somehow reverse the inevitable. Others are not sure what gives focus to their day and so end up wasting time. Still others, those who have the physical and psychological wherewithal, continue to keep active – taking on whatever projects they have energy for.

There is no doubt that this same range is evident among public figures, whether they are politicians, business leaders, entertainers, or religious figures. The ends of the two most recent papacies show us a clear contrast in how two men approached their waning years. Yet, despite the differences, both have edified many people.

Pope Benedict XVI and Blessed John Paul II have offered us two distinct ways to approach the end of their papacy. John Paul II edified many in the world with his steadfastness in the midst of a very visble and prolonged diminishment. One of the lasting images from his final days of life is his appearance at the window of his papal apartment, trying desperately to speak to the crowds gathering below in St. Pater’s Square.

He was elected for life by his fellow cardinals, and, even if not strong in his body, he was certain in his heart and soul that he would maintain responsibility until his final breath. In doing so he showed the world that there is nothing wrong with manifesting weakness and infirmity in the public eye. The world watched his gradual decline. He refused to hide away. In this, he was edifying and taught the world a great deal about what the sick and suffering have to teach us.

Pope Benedict XVI is showing us that important lesson about knowing the right time to bow out. He would be perfectly within his bounds to hold on to the papacy until his death. Yet, he is manifesting a kind of humility that lets us know that he is a frail 85- year old man and he no longer has the strength to carry out his responsibilities.

Knowing all that we know about Benedict and his active mind, we know that he will retreat to his monastery and take time for extra prayer, reading, and whatever projects for which he still has energy. He is edifying us by showing us that his love for the Church is greater than his power and influence.

Saint Ignatius of Loyola had a few words to offer about the end of one’s life and how important it is to be a source of edification and example to those around us. He says that as during our whole life, so also in our old age, and even more at the time of death, we should strive earnestly that through us God our Lord may be gloried and served and our neighbours edified, at least by the example of our patience and fortitude, along with our living faith, hope and love. Both John Paul II and Benedict XVI have edified the Church and the world. We thank God for their gifts!