St. Mary's of Colts Neck 'Shocked and Stunned' at Resignation of Pope Benedict XVI

Leaders at St. Mary's Catholic Church in Colts Neck said they were "shocked and stunned" at Pope Benedict XVI's announcement to resign.

Pope Benedict XVI, 85, announced early Monday through the Vatican in Rome that he will step down at the end of the month, citing deteriorating health. The pope is the spiritual leader of the world's one billion Roman Catholics.

"We're surprised, we're shocked. But we respect the Holy Father because as he said, with 'much prayer' he made the difficult decision," Deacon Vincent Rinaldi said. "...If he feels that between he and God he doesn't have the strength to continue in his ministry…then we understand that and we support him in his decision."

Now, a new pope will be chosen by the Cardinals to replace the Pope Benedict, who is the former Cardinal Joseph Ratzinger. 

"It makes for a good conversation amongst the people, but things will continue at St. Mary's the way they have been," Deacon Rinaldi said. 

Rev. David M. O'Connell, Bishop of Trenton said while he's saddened by the news, he believes it shows courage and devotion to the church as a whole. 

"In a world where power and influence are sought after and held tightly, this passing of the papal crozier speaks volumes about Pope Benedict XVI's humility and desire that the Catholic Church be led effectively and well," Bishop O'Connell said in a news release.

"He had an incredible ability to make the most profound and intense aspects of our faith clear and accessible not only to Catholics but to all people."