It contains a series of cryptic Latin phrases believed to describe every Pope, from Celestine II in 1143 to the Church's current leader, Pope Francis. The last passage of the book reads ...

Benedict was the first pope to abdicate the papacy since Pope Celestine V resigned in 1294. Francis has vowed repeatedly over his nearly 12 years as head of the church that he would not resign.

Benedict was the first pope to resign since Celestine V in 1294 voluntarily. Who does the pope's job before a new pope is elected? The work a pope does, such as appointing bishops, announcing new ...