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IN WHAT CAME as a huge surprise, Pope Benedict XVI announced yesterday morning that he is to step down as Pope.
Saying that he is stepping down from the role due to his age and deteriorating health, his decision came after almost eight years as the head of the Catholic Church.
During his seven years in power, the pontiff faced rumours about his failing health; making decisions on how to deal with the many church sex abuse scandals; and leading Roman Catholics in a changing world.
2005
The newly-elected Pope waves from a balcony at the Vatican. Pic: Andrew Medichini/AP/Press Association Images
2006
2007
2008
2009
2010
Pic: Martin Cleaver/AP/Press Association Images
2011
December 2011: Pope Benedict XVI delivers his blessing during the Angelus prayer from his studio overlooking St. Peter’s square. Pic: AP Photo/Riccardo De Luca
(romereports/YouTube)
2012
Pic: AP Photo/Osservatore Romano
(AFP/YouTube)
Paolo Gabriele, bottom left, with the Pope in May 2012. Pic: Andrew Medichini/AP/Press Association Images
2013
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