Sede Vacante it will be on February 28th, 2013 when Pope Benedict XVI. is
officially receding from his position as Pope. The decision came today and
instantly spread around the world. The resaon is easy: Ongoing health issues
the reason for his recession. So the Vatican has to select a new Pope now.

After February 28th, 2013 the Holy Seat will be vacant for about 20 days when a new Pope is selected and elected. The time, known as “sede vacante” (empty seat) is exactly the time where the conclave is about to decide who will be the new laeder of the catholic church.

Pope Benedict got into critics about his Re-engagement of four excommunicated bishops from the Pius X. brotherhood. They’re said to deny the Holocaust. Amongst them is Richard Williamson, a british bishop who is the initiator of the Holocaust-Denial.

But also some other actions from Pope Benedict XVI. have stood in critics so far. However also Pope Benedict also is well-renowned in the world and his recession is probably uproaring.

He is only the second pope who opted for early retirement not due to natural death.

The first pope who decided to resign, was Pope Coelestin V. in 1294 only 5 monts after his election.

So after about 7 years, the catholic church will soon be again without a leader.

Official signet of Pope Benedict XVI.

Pope Benedict XVI. using Twitter on December 12th, 2012

Pope Benedict XVI. stating his recession from the Holy Seat on February 11th, 2013