Scottish Catholic Observer

Pope Benedict XVI says he is standing down ‘for the good of the Church.’

As the Holy Father, 85, spoke to the thousands gathered at the Vatican for his general audience this morning, many pilgrims were seen to be weeping. The audience was his first public appearance since he announced his resignation, effective February 28.

Pope Benedict took the opportunity of this morning’s gathering to give thanks for the public outpouring of ‘love and prayers’ since the surprise news of his retirement owas made public on MOnday.

“Thank you for the love and prayer with which you have accompanied me… Keep praying for me, for the Church and for the future Pope,” he said.

The Holy Father acknowledged the gravity of his decision to resign and also spoke of his declining strength, adding that he was certain the Church would sustain him with prayer.

“I did this in full liberty for the good of the Church,” he added.

The pontiff was due to celebrate Ash Wednesday at the small Sant’ Anselmo church, then lead a procession to Santa Sabina Basilica on Aventine Hill in Rome.

The Vatican, however, has changed his Ash Wednesday Mass to St Peter’s to accommodate the crowds that have gathered.

PIC: PA The Pope as he leaves today’s general audience.