Declaratio of 11 February 2013
The short declaration, read in Latin to the cardinals, by which Benedict XVI renounced the office of bishop of Rome with effect from 20:00 on 28 February 2013.
Read the text at vatican.va ↗The Latin text as read (Holy See) ↗
The text is two paragraphs long. Benedict XVI read it to the cardinals gathered in consistory on 11 February 2013; it is dated the day before. It gives his reason, the decline of his strength with age, states that he acts “with full freedom”, names the hour at which the see will fall vacant, and says that a conclave will have to be called.
It is the act of resignation itself and so the primary source for Benedict XVI Resigns and Francis Is Elected. It is addressed to the cardinals as an announcement of a decision already made.
Cited in
- 11 February 2013, firm date