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OUR SUNDAY VISITOR'S COVERAGE: Prayers for the Pope | OSV President Reflects on Benedict's Pontificate | Papal Transition 2013 News Round-Up

Pope Benedict XVI speaks of his departure during his final general audience

On Wednesday, Feb. 27, the Holy Father made his last public appearance, speaking to thousands of the faithful gathered in Saint Peter’s Square at the Vatican. In his farewell address, Pope Benedict’s words were emotional and heartfelt as he reflected on his years as Pontiff.

After his retirement, he told the audience, “I will continue to accompany the path of the church with prayer and reflection, with that dedication to the Lord and to his bride that I have tried to live every day till now and that I want to live always.”

After his address, the crowd, estimated at more than 150,000 by the Vatican, gave the Pope a two-minute standing ovation. His speech was his last address before his resignation takes effect Feb. 28 at 8:00 p.m., Central European Time.

To read the full story, which also includes links to a video report and the full text of the farewell address in English, click here.