On February 10, 2013, Pope Benedict XVI issued the stunning declaration that he intended to resign from his post as head of the Catholic Church at the end of the month. The move was virtually ...

But when Francis’ predecessor Pope Benedict XVI became the first ever pope to resign in six centuries, a new tradition was established: A deep cross was carved into the ring’s surface with a ...

Leo is tied as the fourth most common papal name, alongside Clement. The most common papal name is John, followed by Gregory and Benedict.

The pope's name helps indicate what direction he wants to take the church.

But when Francis’ predecessor Pope Benedict XVI became the first ever pope to resign in six centuries, a new tradition was established: A deep cross was carved into the ring’s surface with a ...

But when Francis’ predecessor Pope Benedict XVI became the first ever pope to resign in six centuries, a new tradition was established: A deep cross was carved into the ring’s surface with a ...