Vatican Spokesman gave a speech for the resignation of Pope Benedict XVI

Italy, February 11, 2013

Father Federico Lombardi, Vatican spokesman, said, “Benedict XVI’s decision to abandon the ministry took us by surprise”.

“The Pope used the Article 332, paragraph 2, of the Code of Canon Law which states that a pope can resign freely and not require anyone to accept it.”

“The pope’s decision is consistent with the statement that he did in the interview” Light of the World ‘. ‘When the danger is great you cannot escape, is not the time to quit. May be waived in a period of tranquility ‘, claimed the Pope “.

“The vacant stage usually lasts less than a month. It tends to be slower for the organization of the funeral of the late Pontiff. This time it can be shorter. Before Easter there will be a new Pope. “

When asked, – Why February 28 at 8 pm?, Lombardi replied: “I do not know. It is a decision that affects the universal Church. You have to pick a time that takes into account the time zones. It may be considered the operating end of that day. “

After the press conference, he concluded: “the Pope’s decision is personal, in March forecast that there is a new pope and is not aware of any disease. Benedict XVI will move into a former monastery of cloistered nuns. “