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While the brilliance of this intellectual legacy will certainly endure, it will also have to contend with the shadows of the numerous controversies that marked Benedict’s time as pope and, later, as pope emeritus.

(The Conversation) — Pope Benedict XVI led the Catholic Church at a crucial time and had to confront a growing sexual abuse scandal.

(The Conversation is an independent and nonprofit source of news, analysis and commentary from academic experts.)

He leaves a legacy of intellectual brilliance and controversy

While the brilliance of Benedict XVI's intellectual legacy will certainly endure, it will also have to contend with the shadows of the numerous controversies that marked his time as pope and, later, as pope emeritus, writes Mathew Schmalz.

Joseph Ratzinger's writings will be relevant decades from now, but his pontificate will inevitably be associated with controversies.

Numerous controversies marked Benedicts time as pope and, later, as pope emeritus. Heres an analysis of his impact on Catholics and the world.

Pope Benedict XVI led the Catholic Church at a crucial time and had to confront a growing sexual abuse scandal.