Photos: Pope Benedict XVI takes leave

Celebration and prayer as the pontiff makes history

<p>In this photo provided by the Vatican newspaper L&#8217;Osservatore Romano, Pope Benedict XVI delivers his message on the occasion of his farewell meeting to cardinals, at the Vatican, Thursday, Feb. 28, 2013. Benedict XVI promised his &#8220;unconditional reverence and obedience&#8221; to his successor in his final words to his cardinals Thursday, a poignant farewell before he becomes the first pope in 600 years to resign. (AP Photo/L&#8217;Osservatore Romano, ho)</p>

In this photo provided by the Vatican newspaper L’Osservatore Romano, Pope Benedict XVI delivers his message on the occasion of his farewell meeting to cardinals, at the Vatican, Thursday, Feb. 28, 2013. Benedict XVI promised his “unconditional reverence and obedience” to his successor in his final words to his cardinals Thursday, a poignant farewell before he becomes the first pope in 600 years to resign. (AP Photo/L’Osservatore Romano, ho)

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