Pope Benedict XVI (C) celebrates a Holy Mass in the Stade da l'Amitie (Friendship Stadium) in Cotonou, Benin 20 November 2011, during his three-day pastoral trip to the country. EPA/CARLO FERRARO
Shocking the Vatican and much of the Catholic world, Pope Benedict XVI became the first pope to resign in 600 years. Attributing the resignation to his ailing health, Pope Benedict XVI's announcement sparked a massive social media response. Terms related to the pope were the top trend in countries around the globe, from Australia to Nigeria, Colombia and the Philippines.