Since the announcement by Pope Benedict XVI on his resignation effective February 28, 2013, the attention of the universal Church and the world has turned to the Vatican, as Church fathers plan for an event that has not happened in 600 years: the stepping down of a Pope from the Chair of St. Peter.
To assist the faithful, the Diocese will post daily stories on the Diocesan website of news and activities on the Papal Transition; stories that will be provided by Catholic News Service and other agencies. The Papal Transition page will include additional information on Pope Benedict and his papacy. Among the documents are his three encyclicals and his speeches during his visit to the United States in April 2008.
The page also contains resource material, including study guides for students from K-12 and adults, courtesy of the Archdiocese of Washington, DC. (See links below).
Above: A member of the Swiss Guard closes the main door of the papal villa at Castel Gandolfo at 8 p.m. Feb. 28. The Swiss Guard concluded its protective service to Pope Benedict XVI, signaling the end of his papacy. (CNS/Paul Haring) Click photo to view larger.
Today's Story
Bishop Burbidge Requests Prayers for Pope Francis
We Have a Pope!
News Stories
Diocesan Seminarians Witness to History
First Vote Results in Black Smoke as Conclave Begins
Conclave to Elect New Pope Set to Begin
Conclave to Begin March 12
Cardinals Near Conclusion of Pre-Conclave Meetings
Cardinals Continue Pre-Conclave Meetings
Vatican Tailor Prepared for New Pope
Cardinals Reflect on Opening of Conclave
Interregnum Period Begins
A "Humble Servant" to "Simple Pilgrim"
Pope Benedict Delivers Emotional Farewell
What Some Cardinals are Saying
Pope Benedict Changes Conclave Rules
Voting Rules for Election of New Pope
Interesting Facts of Previous Popes
Synod Gives Clues to Cardinals' Priorities
Holy Father Commended for Position on Global Economic Crisis
Bishop Burbidge Calls Pope Benedict’s Decision an Act of "Courage and Humility"
Catechetical Resources
Courtesy of Archdiocese of Washington, DC
How is the Pope Elected? (PDF)
Grades K-2 English (PDF)
Grades K-2 Spanish (PDF)
Grades 3-5 English (PDF)
Grades 3-5 Spanish (PDF)
Grades 6-8 English (PDF)
Grades 6-8 Spanish (PDF)
Grades 9-12 English (PDF)
Grades 9-12 Spanish (PDF)
RCIA and Teens English (PDF)
RCIA and Teens Spanish (PDF)
Papal Documents
Pope Benedict XVI Declaration of Resignation February 11, 2013
CARITAS IN VERITATE (Charity in Truth)
SPE SALVI (Saved in Hope)
DEUS CARITAS EST (God is Love)
Activities of Pope Benedict XVI (2005-2013)
Talks by Pope Benedict XVI during his visit to the United States, April 2008