Parishioners and the world-at-large is shocked at the news that Pope Benedict XVI has resigned and will only hold his seat through November this year.
Since 2005, 85 year-old Pope Benedict XVI, has been the head of the Catholic church. He took over the papal seat after the death of Pope John Paul II. Due to his failing health, the Pope felt that it would better serve the church if he would be replaced. This is the first time a pope has resigned in over 600 years.
Heads of the Catholic church have taken the news in stride, sequestering themselves to seek guidance from God on who will be Pope Benedict's replacement. The Pope stated "I am well aware that this ministry, due to its essential spiritual nature, must be carried out not only by words and deeds but no less with prayer and suffering."
The Catholic Church operations from the Vatican have continued, despite the surprising news. Through the Pope's illness, he delivered a full holy mass on 2 February 2013.
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