Pope Benedict XVI Announces Resignation; Will Step Down February 28

In a shocking announcement, Pope Benedict XVI said he intends to resign from his position as head of the Catholic Church Feb. 28.

Pope Benedict XVI took up the position as head of the Catholic Church after the death of John Paul II in 2005. Now, in a sudden and shocking announcement, a spokesman of the Vatican has confirmed to AFP that the Pope intends on stepping down from his current position Feb. 28. The reason behind this sudden resignation is said to be because the Pope feels he no longer has the strength to carry out the duties of his office.

"For this reason, and well aware of the seriousness of this act, with full freedom I declare that I renounce the ministry of Bishop of Rome, Successor of Saint Peter," he said according to a statement from the Vatican.

Formerly known as Cardinal Joseph Ratzinger, Pope Benedict XVI became the oldest elected Pope when he became the Pope in 2005 at the age of 78. This is the first time in the history of the Vatican that a Pope has resigned from his position as head of the Catholic Church.