Mystery shrouds pope's retirement

Feb 28, 2013

Mystery shrouds pope's retirement

On an April 2009 visit to the Italian mountain town of Sulmona, Pope Benedict XVI solemnly placed his pallium, the vestment symbolizing his papal authority, on the tomb of Celestine V. The medieval pontiff’s abdication in 1294 had resulted in imprisonment by his successor ...

Italian leader leaves options open

Dec 12, 2012

Italian leader leaves options open

Italian Prime Minister Mario Monti’s decision to resign has left the door wide open for the former Eurocrat to run in the upcoming general election, or take on the mediator role of president. For now, the professorial 69-year-old — whose first foray into politics ...