[Updated at 8:26 a.m. ET] We're getting details about the future of the first pope to resign in nearly 600 years.
The pontiff will keep the name Benedict XVI and the title "his holiness" once he retires. He also will be known as pope emeritus, emeritus pope or Roman pontifex emeritus, Vatican spokesman Federico Lombardi told reporters at the Vatican on Tuesday.
Benedict surprised the world when he announced earlier this month that he would retire effective this Thursday.
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pontifex emeritus was a dromaeosaur which lived between 120-90 million years ago. It stood 6-9 feet tall and weighed about the same as a Honda accord, and was known for its razor sharp teeth and claws. Several specimens have been found over the years and can be viewed in a number of museums including the Smithsonian.
Hello, @ BOMBO. Thank you for the appropriately relevant information!
I was betting he would just be referred to as "old Joe Ratzinger", but I guess that name lacked the panache of "pontifex emeritus".
I love catholics, i love God, I love Mary,, and i Love Jesus. I love Pope Benedict.
you are wise and close to GOD. I was gojng to say the same thing. love Christ , the virging and the Church and the Pope.
Vice Pope ?
the Pope Mother