Benedict vows 'unconditional obedience' to next pope
Says cardinals were great help during papacy
28 February, 11:39
(see related story)
(ANSA) - Vatican City, February 28 - Pope Benedict XVI
pledged obedience to his successor at a meeting of cardinals on
his last day as pontiff on Thursday.
"Among you is the future pope, to whom I promise my
unconditional reverence and obedience," Benedict said.The outgoing pope added that the support and advice he had received from the cardinals during the seven years, 10 months and nine days he has spent as pope were of "great help".
"It has been a joy for me too to walk with you over these years," Benedict said.
He added that the college of cardinals "should be like an orchestra in which diversity can lead to synchronous harmony".
Benedict then greeted one by one all of the cardinals, many of whom were visibly moved.
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