Roman Pontiff Emeritus

Pope Benedict's new name revealed

A technician works on a structure set up for TV media in St. Peter's Square at the Vatican Feb. 26, the eve of Pope Benedict XVI's final weekly audience. CNS photo / Alessandro Bianchi, Reuters.

Catholic News Agency is reporting that the Holy See press office revealed Feb. 26 that Pope Benedict XVI will retain his papal name but will be called Pope Emeritus.

"He will still be called His Holiness Benedict XVI," said the press office director, Father Federico Lombardi, Feb. 26, "but he will also be called Pope Emeritus or Roman Pontiff Emeritus."

As for his apparel, the Pope emeritus will wear a simple white cassock without the mozzetta, the short cape that covers his shoulders, and a pair of brown shoes given to him in Leon, Mexico.

He will replace the Fisherman's ring worn by Popes with an episcopal ring from his time as Cardinal Ratzinger. The Pope's ring and seal will be broken at a moment to be determined by the College of Cardinals and its chamberlain, in accordance with the sede vacante norms.

For full story see The B.C. Catholic website.