Calling this an unusual time for him and for the church -- but not specifically mentioning his resignation -- Pope Benedict XVI thanked a crowd of more than 50,000 in St. Peter's Square today (February 17, 2013) for their affection and asked them to continue their prayers, reports the Catholic News website.
A roar of applause rose up from the assembled crowd as Pope Benedict came to his studio window to lead the Angelus prayer.
People came to St. Peter's in larger numbers than normal for a Sunday Angelus because it was the first completely public, no-tickets-needed event since the pope announced on February 11 that he would be stepping down on February 28.
As he does every week, he greeted groups of pilgrims in their native languages. Addressing Spanish speakers, he said, "My heartfelt thanks ... for your prayers and affection in these days. Continue to pray for me and the next pope."
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