Pope Holds Last Public Mass

In observance of Ash Wednesday

Pope Benedict XVI has celebrated his last scheduled public Mass following his resignation.

The service was for Ash Wednesday and was held in St Peter's Basilica.

Looking tired, the 85-year-old pontiff anointed the foreheads of the faithful with ashes in a service attended by cardinals, bishops, monks, friars and pilgrims.

Wearing purple vestments, he referred to his resignation in his homily, asking for the prayers of the faithful.