The resignation of Pope Benedict XVI has demonstrated the process by which a pope might step down and be replaced.

The resignation of Pope Benedict XVI has demonstrated the process by which a pope might step down and be replaced.

Pope Francis’ hospital stay is raising obvious questions about what happens if he loses consciousness for a prolonged period, or whether he might follow in Pope Benedict XVI’s footsteps and resign if he becomes unable to lead.

Francis' hospital stay is raising questions about what happens if he loses consciousness for a prolonged period, or whether he might follow in Pope Benedict XVI's footsteps and resign.

It’s time for a change.The resignation of Pope Benedict XVI could position the church

Pope Benedict XVI officially stepped down as leader of the Roman Catholic Church, citing a "lack of strength of mind and body."

Following the death of a pope, or in rare cases of resignation such as with Pope Benedict XVI, the Vatican convenes a papal conclave, in which the College of Cardinals come together to elect the Church’s next head.

Pope Emeritus Benedict stepped down from the papacy, making him the first one to take such a step in six centuries. This became one of the biggest events of the century. In 1953, the chemical structur

Pope Francis' approach to LGBTQ issues marked a major, if mixed, shift in tone for the Catholic Church -- from scorn to tolerance and acceptance.

Over the weekend, the Vatican announced serious complications in the recovery of Pope Francis. The 88-year-old pontiff, who has been hospitalized for 10 days, is battling pneumonia and on Sunday also appeared to be in the early stages of kidney failure, the Vatican said.

Pope Francis removed Strickland after he refused to resign from office. The Dicastery for Bishops investigated "all aspects" of Strickland's governance and leadership and concluded that "the continuation in office of Bishop Strickland was not feasible." The department recommended that Strickland be asked to resign.

The Vatican has detailed laws and rituals to ensure the transfer of power when a pope dies or resigns, but not when he is sick