Pope Benedict the 16th will be resigning at the end of this month. Bishop Thomas Paprocki, with the Catholic Diocese in Springfield, says he was surprised by the Pope's decision.

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Paprocki says he's personally grateful for the Pope.

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Paprocki, with the Catholic Diocese in Springfield, says he met with the Pope last year and saw just how demanding his schedule was.

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Paprocki says the Pope has been a defender of the truth and a voice for the poor. The Pope says his physical condition prevents him from adequately serving the people any longer. His last day will be February 28th. One hundred-18 Cardinals will select the Pope's successor.