[Edward]

The spiritual leader of 1.2 billion Catholics, Pope Benedict XVI, surprised the world Monday by saying he will resign at the end of the month "because of advanced age."

It's the first time a pope has stepped down in nearly 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," the pope said, according to the Vatican.

The news startled and shocked the Catholic world and led to frenzied speculation about who would replace him.

Analysts and experts immediately began debating the merits of naming a pontiff from the developing world, where the church continues to grow, versus one from Europe -- where it has deep historical roots.

Cardinals will meet to choose Benedict's successor sometime after his official resignation on February 28, the Rev. Federico Lombardi, a Vatican spokesman, said at a news conference.

"Before Easter, we will have the new pope," he said.

Very surprising, since he seemed to be alright and even made a Twitter account. I found it ironic that the article mentions child molestation cases in unison with his resignation. They think he will retire and spend the rest of his life at a monastery. Additionally, it's worth noting that a pope hasn't resigned in over 600 years, and it was to end a war inside the church.

Source: CNN News

[Kinanizer]

We watched his resignation in Latin class. It's understandable that he did though considering his health problems.

[WuhTehFuh]

I hadn't heard about this, thanks for the update

[Bannedshee]

I find this EXTREMELY funny xD

Thanks for the laugh.

[Kinanizer]

I find this EXTREMELY funny xD

Thanks for the laugh.

How is this funny?

[Bannedshee]

I find this EXTREMELY funny xD

Thanks for the laugh.

How is this funny?

Meh, I find it funny that some religious leader who is all for god and faith and stuff resigned just because of age. I mean, he could've just made some adjustments to how he travels and stuff, but why resign?

[WuhTehFuh]

I find this EXTREMELY funny xD

Thanks for the laugh.

How is this funny?

Meh, I find it funny that some religious leader who is all for god and faith and stuff resigned just because of age. I mean, he could've just made some adjustments to how he travels and stuff, but why resign?

Because it may be too hard for him to continue his job. He has to make many public appearances and these may deteriorate his health.