In a surprise announcement on Monday the papal office said that Pope Benedict XVI has decided to step-down on 28th February because of advancing age and indifferent health. This is for the first time in 600 years that a Pope is resigning from his post.
Pope Benedict’s spokesperson, Father Federico Lombardi informed, “The Pope has announced he will give up his ministry at 8 pm on the 28th of February. That is when the period known as “sede vacante” or the Empty Chair will commence”.
German-born, the 85-year-old Pope, said, “…after having examined my conscience before God several times. I am convinced that my strength, given my advanced age, no longer allows me to fully exercise my ministry. In the present world, prey to constant change, the vigour of mind and body are also necessary to navigate Saint Peter’s boat and advance the Faith. I have lacked this strength these past months and I have been obliged to admit my incapacity to properly govern the ministry confided to me.”
A new pope will be elected before March 31.
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