Watch the last general audience of Pope Benedict XVI, his final address before an estimated crowd of 150,000 in St. Peter's Square.
In the last general audience of his pontificate, Benedict XVI thanked his collaborators in the Roman Curia, the faithful and people from different social and political spheres around the world for their closeness and affection in recent weeks.
Addressing the tens of thousands who rallied around him, he once again explained the reasons for his decision to resign.
“In recent months I had felt my strength decline, and I earnestly asked God in prayer to enlighten me and help me make the right decision not for my sake, but for the good of the Church.
“I have taken this step in full awareness of its gravity and also its novelty, but with a deep peace of mind.”
Pope Benedict XVI delivers a farewell message to faithful in final appearance at the balcony of the Castel Gandolfo palace.
