Roman Catholics in the south have spoken of their shock of the announcement of the Pope’s resignation.
Pope Benedict XVI has said he will leave his ministry on February 28, but the reason for his resignation has yet to become known.
The 85-year-old became head of the Catholic church in April 2005 following the death of John Paul II.
Rev Langford Vincent, deacon for the Fareham and Portchester section of Our Lady of the Star parish, which includes St Margaret Mary Church, said: “There was no inkling at all that he was going to resign.
“He is pretty frail now and it’s a great responsibility and he has to travel a lot. I’m very much shocked about the news. The whole world is shocked.
“He has been a very good leader and we all look up to him and thank him for it.”
It is expected a new Pope will be elected before Easter.