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This is an archive article published on February 26, 2013

Pope Benedict XVI will have 8216;pontiff emeritus8217; title: Vatican

Benedict can be addressed as 'Your Holiness Benedict XVI' and can also still wear a white cassock.

Pope Benedict XVI will have the official title of pontiff emeritus after he resigns on Thursday 8212; the first leader of the Catholic Church to do so since the Middle Ages,the Vatican said.

Benedict can still be addressed as Your Holiness Benedict XVI and will have the title of Roman Pontiff Emeritus,spokesman Federico Lombardi told the Vatican press corps today.

Benedict can also still wear a white cassock normally reserved only for pontiffs and will continue using the shoes given to him by artisans in Mexico during a trip last year,Lombardi said.

The Vatican spokesman also said a series of meetings of cardinals to settle on a date for the start of a conclave to elect Benedict8217;s successor could start on Monday,March 4.

Lombardi said the pope had already sorted between the official documents from his papacy that will remain in the Vatican and personal notes that he will take with him into retirement.

Benedict holds a final general audience in St Peter8217;s Square tomorrow before he officially steps down on Thursday.

 

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