The Washington Times

Pope Benedict says goodbye, promises ‘obedience’ to successor

Pope Benedict XVI told cardinals Thursday that he would give them “unconditional reverence and obedience” in his retirement, which is due to take official effect at 8 p.m.

He also pressed his cardinals to stay unified and told them he would pray for them as they make their selection of a new pope, according to a report by The Associated Press. The College of Cardinals should operate “like an orchestra,” he said, with “agreement and harmony” at all times, the AP reported.


SEE RELATED: A reluctant leader, Pope Benedict leaves legacy of ‘new evangelization’


Around 5 p.m., the pope — who is the first to retire in 600 years — will leave the palace and fly to Castel Gandolfo, AP reports. His resignation will take effect right at 8 p.m.

That’s when the Swiss Guards at the palazzo go off duty, AP reports.

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About the Author

Cheryl K. Chumley

Cheryl Chumley is a continuous news writer for The Washington Times. Previously, she was part of the start-up team for The Washington Times’ digital aggregation product, Times247. She’s also a 2008-2009 Robert Novak journalism fellow with The Phillips Foundation. She can be reached at cchumley@washingtontimes.com.

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