http://www.reuters.com/article/2013/02/11/us-pope-confirm-idUSBRE91A0A120130211
"Pope Benedict said on Monday he will resign on Feb 28 because he no longer has the strength to fulfill the duties of his office, becoming the first pontiff since the Middle Ages to take such a step."
The last pope to resign was Pope Gregory XII, in 1415 in a deal to end the Great Western Schism.
The office will remain vacant until a successor is elected at a conclave in March.
"Pope Benedict said on Monday he will resign on Feb 28 because he no longer has the strength to fulfill the duties of his office, becoming the first pontiff since the Middle Ages to take such a step."
The last pope to resign was Pope Gregory XII, in 1415 in a deal to end the Great Western Schism.
The office will remain vacant until a successor is elected at a conclave in March.



