The pope is about to become the world's most famous recluse

Just how rare was Pope Benedict’s retirement? Well, the last pope to abdicate did so in 1415. Which raised an interesting question for the Vatican — what do you do with an ex-pope? Since most former Leaders of the Catholic World relinquish their titles by, you know, dying, this is not something the Church has much experience with. Do popes retire to Florida? Benedict says his plan is “withdrawing into prayer” where he will “remain hidden to the world.” No condo in Boca Raton, though — he’ll move into new digs at the Mater Ecclesiae convent behind the gardens of St. Peter’s Basilica. Also gone? His title — his former Holiness will once again be known as Cardinal Joseph Ratzinger. [Source]

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