Pope Benedict XVI Retires

Pope Benedict XVI left the Vatican for the last time as the head of the Roman Catholic church Thursday morning. By 7p.m. in Italy, he will officially step down as the leader of the church. 

Pope Benedict XVI was the 265th pope. (AP)

He arrived to Castel Gandolfo, his summer home, via helicopter to make his final appearance as Pope. He addressed a crowd of thousands in Castel Gandolfo on a balcony overlooking the packed and crowded square. He thanked these followers and told them he is going to become "a pilgrim about to start his last journey on earth." 

Before leaving Vatican City, the retired Pope promised his "unconditional reverence and obedience" to his successor. 

During his speech to in the Clementine Hall of Apostolic Palace, he urged the cardinals that they should act as a unified group in the future. 

"Before greeting you individually, I would like to tell you that I will continue to be close to you in prayer, especially in the coming days. Among you is the future pope, to whom I promise my unconditional reverence and obedience."

Benedict even took to Twitter one last time to say goodbye to all of his followers.

"Thank you for your love and support. May you always experience the joy that comes from putting Christ at the centre of your lives," he wrote. 

Pope Benedict XVI is the first pope to retire in over 600 years.