Papal Resignation: Tribute to Pope Benedict XVI from around the world

February 12, 2013: Pope Benedict XVI has announced on Monday his resignation from the See of Rome, effective February 28th, 2013 at 8 PM Rome Time. Following the announcement, World leaders have been paying tribute to Pope Benedict, sending him expressions of surprise, and gratitude for the Holy Father's service. Incidentally he will become the first Pope to stand down in 600 years.

When asked about the startling announcement of the Pope, Cardinal Peter Turkson, President of the Pontifical Council for Justice and Peace, said:
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Paying glorious tribute to Pope Benedict XVI while speaking in the House of Commons, British Prime Minister David Cameron said, "Pope Benedict has worked tirelessly to strengthen Britain's relations with the Holy See." He added: "He will be missed as a spiritual leader to millions."
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Catholics in Ireland have reacted with shock at the resignation of Pope Benedict XVI. Cardinal Sean Brady, the Archbishop of Armagh and Primate of All Ireland, said the pope's decision had been a "profound act of humility".
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Cardinal Timothy Dolan 'startled' by Pope's resignation
Cardinal Timothy Dolan, archbishop of New York, has said he was "very startled" by Pope’s announcement.
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Cardinal Oswald Gracias, Archbishop of Bombay, and President of the Catholic Bishops’ Conference of India (CBCI) and the Secretary General of Federation of Asian Bishops’ Conferences (FABC) expressed ‘total surprise and sadness’ at the announcement of the Pope to step down. He said
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