New title may be coined for retiring pope
'Perhaps Bishop Emeritus of Rome' says Vatican
12 February, 15:01
(ANSA) - Vatican City, February 12 - Vatican Spokesman
Federico Lombardi said Tuesday a new title may have to be coined
to refer to Pope Benedict XVI once he officially steps down.
"Perhaps Bishop Emeritus of Rome," he said.
Benedict, who surprised the world with his plan to step
down on Monday, will retain his rank as bishop after his
resignation becomes official on February 28, and will eventually
move into a monastery inside the Vatican walls.
In order to remain a cardinal, he would have to be
reappointed, something Lombardi seemed to rule out Tuesday."It will be interesting to see how we address him, how he will be called," said Lombardi. "It will be difficult to call him cardinal".
Brochure: 
