Pope Benedict XVI Officially Leaves Office

Benedict XVI ceased to be pope at 8 p.m. local time (2 p.m. Eastern) Thursday when his resignation took effect, leaving the leadership of the Roman Catholic Church vacant while its leading clerics consider who should succeed him.

A brilliant teacher steps down from the papacy

As the Church prepares for the election of a new pope, we reflect upon the inspiring works and teachings of Pope Benedict XVI. We thank God for his service and his dedication to our faith and to the people of the world. We continue to pray for him as he leaves the papacy, and we pray for the cardinals as they choose a new pope.

Watch for the Anti-Catholics To Weigh in on the Papal Succession

Because the Roman Catholic Church adamantly defends life in the womb, the oldest and most infirm and the institution of marriage, it has legions of foes spread throughout major media. Those critics will surface repeatedly between now and the selection of the new pope to use the occasion to sling their stones. It is a fun time, really, since they know almost nothing of which they speak, and their agenda journalism is of so little consequence unlike the MSM's recent interventions in the presidential election.