THE VATICAN
Pope Benedict XVI made his first public appearance on Wednesday since his resignation announcement, asking people to keep praying for him and the church.
At his weekly audience at the Paul VI auditorium, Pope said he made a decision to quit the mission God gave him on April 19, 2005, adding that he made his decision freely after examining it and praying for days.
Pope said he had made his decision "for the good of the Church".
On Monday, Pope Benedict XVI announced that he would resign on February 28.
After his resignation, Pope will send an invitation to 120 cardinals to attend a meeting in order to choose the new pope. The new pope will be selected during a four-day meeting and with participation of cardinals under the age of 80.
