Pope thankful for 'prayers'
The Pope has made his first appearance at St Peter's Square window since his resignation announcement and thanked the faithful for their "prayers and support."
The Pope has made his first appearance at St Peter's Square window since his resignation announcement and thanked the faithful for their "prayers and support."
Cardinal Arinze has described being in the room when Pope Benedict XVI made his shock resignation, yesterday. He said the Cardinals were all very surprised. He told the Catholic News Service:
"He said, please sit down, I have something to say, important for the Church. So it was for us, a surprise, like thunder that gives no notice it is coming. As he went on, I began to fear what was coming. There was silent. We all looked at each other, in silence and surprise. "
Cardinal Francis Arinze is among the favourites to replace Benedict.
So, we're all shocked at the resignation of the Pope, but what happens next?
Pope Benedict XVI has made the announcement that he will resign as the head of the Roman Catholic Church due to his "advanced age."
Who will follow in Pope Benedict's footsteps? Is it time for an African pope?