The Vatican confirms Pope Benedict XVI resigning Feb. 28 - WTVM.com-Columbus, GA News Weather & Sports

The Vatican confirms Pope Benedict XVI resigning Feb. 28

Posted: Updated:
  • NEWS

  • Tuesday, May 21 2013 11:11 PM EDT2013-05-22 03:11:48 GMT
    After much debate and a unanimously vote from the board edgewood elementary and Marshall middle schools will close their doors for the final time next Friday. But what happens after next week?    "There
    After much debate and a unanimously vote from the board edgewood elementary and Marshall middle schools will close their doors for the final time next Friday. But what happens after next week?    "There
  • Wednesday, May 22 2013 1:30 AM EDT2013-05-22 05:30:09 GMT
    As millions of Americans focus their attention on the devastation in Oklahoma, many will feel compelled to reach out and help. But sometimes, in massive recovery efforts, people's good intentions can turn
    As millions of Americans focus their attention on the devastation in Oklahoma, many will feel compelled to reach out and help.

    But sometimes, in massive recovery efforts, people's good intentions can turn into a burden for workers in the trenches.
  • Wednesday, May 22 2013 1:14 AM EDT2013-05-22 05:14:01 GMT
    National Guard Specialist Harrison Barninger held his daughter Lexi Marie for the very first time on Monday.
    National Guard Specialist Harrison Barninger held his daughter Lexi Marie for the very first time on Monday. Our team first brought the Barninger's story to you last October, when Harrison was able to witness his daughter's birth via Skype over 7,000 miles away in Afghanistan.

The Vatican has confirmed Pope Benedict XVI is resigning February 28th. The Pope is 85 years old, and says he lacks the strength to govern the Catholic Church. 

Today's announcement comes as a surprise, and his departure will leave the position open.  He will be the first head of the Catholic Church to resign in almost 600 years.

Copyright WTVM 2013.  All rights reserved.