In today’s snapshot, Pope Benedict washes the foot of a priest during the Mass of the Lord’s Supper at the Basilica of St. John Lateran in Rome April 5, 2012. The foot-washing ritual reflects the call to imitate Christ by serving one another. CNS/Stefano Spaziani ...read more

Tonight on Perspectives: highlights of Pope Benedict’s historic departure from the Vatican. ...read more

When the Swiss Guards closed the door to the palace at Castel Gandolfo, signifying the absence of a pope, three cardinals were left with the task of guiding the church until a new pope is elected. The Camerlengo, or Chamberlain, begins his work when the See of Peter is vacant. When a Pope dies, the ...read more

Cardinal Angelo Sodano spoke on behalf of the College of Cardinals at 11am this morning expressing deep gratitude for the service of Pope Benedict XVI.  Following the address, the Pope personally greeted all of the Cardinals present.  Here is the full text of Cardinal Sodano. Your Holiness, With great trepidation the Cardinal Fathers present in ...read more

Get Me Back to the Garden, I’m Chockin’ on the Weeds is a one-woman-show by Halifax-based actor, Judy Savoy. Tonight on an all-new Catholic Focus, she shares her personal conversion story and her experiences as a performer with host, Deacon Pedro. Catholic Focus, daily at 7pm and 11pm ET; and 8pm AT/PT. Don’t miss it! ...read more

In today’s snapshot, Pope Benedict pets a lion cub during an audience with circus performers and music bands in Paul VI hall at the Vatican Dec. 1, 2012. CNS photo/Paul Haring ...read more

Watch Pope Benedict’s message to English speaking faithful at his final general audience, held today in St. Peter’s Square. ...read more

Published below is a translation of the address that Pope Benedict just delivered in an open-air celebration in St. Peter’s Square. In this moving address to the Church and to the world, he reflected on the past eight years of his papacy and his decision to resign and commit himself to the Church through prayer. ...read more

In today’s snapshot, Pope Benedict takes in the panoramic view from Mount Nebo in Madaba, Jordan, May 9, 2009. Mount Nebo is where Moses glimpsed the Promised Land before dying. The pope was making a week-long pastoral visit to the Holy Land. CNS photo/Greg Tarczynski ...read more

Tonight on Perspectives: the Holy See announces what to call Pope Benedict after his resignation and Cardinal Turcotte speaks to the media before he leaves to take part in the conclave. ...read more