Social media reaction to Pope Benedict XVI's resignation

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Maurice Cacho, CTVNews.ca
Published Monday, February 11, 2013 8:53AM EST
Last Updated Monday, February 11, 2013 11:08AM EST

View the story "Social media reaction to Pope Benedict XVI's resignation" on StorifySocial media reaction to Pope Benedict XVI's resignationPeople started sharing their shock and surprise on Twitter and Facebook after learning of Pope Benedict XVI's resignation on Monday.Storified by CTVNews.ca· Mon, Feb 11 2013 05:47:06Pope announces resignation, will step down at end of FebruaryPope Benedict XVI is stepping down from his role at the end of the month, citing his age and failing health as the reasons for his decisi...Can't believe @Pontifex is resigning! May God bless him and the Church in choosing a new leader.Mackenzie Fagan@Pontifex Stay With Us PapaCeyhun Kayacan@Pontifex Thank you, Pope Benedict.Ann Marie Lapkowicz@Pontifex My prayers are with you as you continue your journey.Aimee BroughI didn't even know a pope could resign...hannah waltersPope,why?Rouine OgrimenCan't believe the Pope has resigned! What is the world coming toAngel SeeboruthThe Pope is quitting? I didn't think this was even allowed. Kinda a die in office job.Myriam RiveraPray for Pope Benedict XVI and pray for the election of the new Pope #prayforPopeSuryadi WSome users began looking ahead to who will become the pope's successor.

Seeing as Africa & Latin America has a large following within the catholic faith I wonder whether his successor will come from there #Pope Miss L.F Just worked out what Benedict is up to. If he resigns he can influence the choice of who will succeed him. Crafty Pope. #popeTony GrewHopefully in the future others that hold power will follow the example of Pope Benedict XVI. Know when to step aside #RespectAndy BeauleThe news from the Vatican also had users taking to social media to share some more light-hearted remarks:
Montreal: so... what color does the cross on Mount Royal turn when the #Pope steps down? #itturnspurplewhenhediesMarie-Jo LerouxThe Pope is hardly the first person to lose interest in their real job so soon after joining Twitter.Sixth Form PoetAuditioning for the new Pope. Have to have two Latin pieces and a Shakespearean monologue. Costume fitting at 5.Colin MochrieCtvnews