Benedict XVI: “Thank you and good evening”

Benedict XVI has officially resigned as Pope, saying he will now “simply be a pilgrim who is starting the last phase of his pilgrimage on this earth.” He vowed “unconditional obedience and reverence” to his successor and in his last Tweet he called on people to “always experience the joy that comes from putting Christ at the centre of your lives.” The college of cardinals will now begin the process of electing a new Pope – with Benedict’s successor expected to be in place before Easter. Follow the story here.