Pope Benedict resigns, became the First Pontiff in Six Centuries to Resign

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Pope Benedict XVI  surprised the world by saying he is going to Retire. The spiritual leader of 1.2 billion Roman Catholics announced his decision to step down in a speech in Latin yesterday (Monday, 11th February 2013) to a small group of cardinals, saying he no longer had the vitality to perform his duties. Only two top Vatican cardinals were informed beforehand. and becoming the first pontiff to step down since the Middle Ages (600 years).

"Strength of mind and body are necessary, strength which in the last few months has deteriorated in me to the extent that I have had to recognize my incapacity to adequately fulfill the ministry entrusted to me," said Benedict, 85, according to the Vatican.