Greg Burke, the adviser said the pope had made the decision because he dose not feel he has the energy to continue in his position as the number one in the catholic episcopal hierarchy.
The resignation which is to take effect at 8 pm on 28 February was announced in Latin Consistory meeting.
Pope Benedict XVI is the first Pope to so resigned since the middle ages and this will leave the Papacy vacant until the next successor is chosen by the college of Cardinals in what is termed The Conclave.
His successor is expected to be elected by the end of March and possibly before the beginning of the Holy Week on 24th March.
The question on everybody's lips is, will the Catholic Church pick the next Pope outside of Europe, which has been occupying the seat for thousands of years?
The Papal line, which goes back more than 2,000 has been dominated by Europe and for 400 years between 1523 and John Paul II in 1978, the Pope was always an Italian.
Those who might be considered to succeed the ailing Pope are Cardinals Marc Ouellet of Canada, Francis Arinze of Nigeria and Peter Turkson of Ghana.While those in Paddy Power favour Marc Ouellet, William Hill favour Francis Arinze and Peter Turkson.
Pope Benedict XVI succeeded Pope John Paul II in 2005 after he passed on to glory.
However, Pope Benedict XVI will continue to function in his capacity and honour all public commitments and engagements until the date of his resignation, after which he will be moved to summer residence near Rome and then to a former monastery within Vatican territory.
We wish the Pope good health and strength till God calls him to an eternal happiness.
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