Departing Pope Benedict XVI presides over his final public prayer ceremony on Feb. 24, 2013 in Vatican City, drawing tens of thousands of emotional Catholics, together with tourists from across the world. (Xinhua/Xu Nizhi)

Related:

Pope Benedict XVI's final Sunday prayer

ROME, Feb. 24 (Xinhua) -- Departing Pope Benedict XVI delivered his final public prayer ceremony on Sunday noon in Vatican City, drawing tens of thousands of emotional Catholics, together with tourists from across the world.

The St. Peter's Square was full of young and old spectators from Sunday morning, many holding up cameras and some pushing strollers. Giant flags and banners also add a few distinct colors to the square.  Full story

Departing Pope Benedict XVI presides over his final public prayer ceremony on Feb. 24, 2013 in Vatican City, drawing tens of thousands of emotional Catholics, together with tourists from across the world. (Xinhua/Xu Nizhi)

 

Departing Pope Benedict XVI presides over his final public prayer ceremony on Feb. 24, 2013 in Vatican City, drawing tens of thousands of emotional Catholics, together with tourists from across the world. (Xinhua/Xu Nizhi)