Pope Benedict announced in his statement that he will renounce the office of Bishop of Rome at 8pm on 28 February for these reasons:
-- Advanced age
-- Is no longer able to carry out all his tasks adequately.
-- Does not have the strength in mind and body necessary for the job.
-- In the last few months he does not have the strength to run his ministry.
-- A conclave will have to be convened to elect the new pope.
-- He would like to "continue to serve the church through a life dedicated to prayer."