Benedict XVI Recognized as Pope Emeritus After His Resignation
Benedict XVI’s resignation in 2013 was an unprecedented event in the modern era of the Catholic Church. After formalizing his decision, Joseph Ratzinger was recognized as Pope Emeritus, retaining the title of His Holiness Benedict XVI and wearing a white cassock without a cape. This historic act raised questions about the Church’s future and marked the beginning of a new phase, as the first Pope in 600 years to voluntarily step down from the Petrine ministry.