VATICAN CITY (CNN) -
Pope Benedict XVI is in the final hours of his tenure.
He will step down at the end of the day, marking the end of his nearly 8-year run as the leader of the Catholic faith and its 1.2 billion followers.
Pope Benedict XVI greeting the Catholic Cardinals as Pontiff for one final time.
"Personally I would like to say I will continue to serve you in prayer," Pope Benedict XVI said.
Before he retreats into retirement, the pope met with each Cardinal in attendance individually.
They are sending him off with thanks for his service and best wishes for his future.
"Holy Father you should know that our heart was burning too when we walked with you during the last 8 years and we want to express to you all our gratitude," Cardinal Angelo Sodano, Dean of College of Cardinals said.
The pope is marking the day with little pomp or circumstance, but it is no less historic.
Benedict XVI is the first leader of the Catholic faith to resign in six centuries.
By the end of the day, he will be at his temporary new home Castel Gandolfo, with his new title, Pope Emeritus.
A permanent residence is being prepared for him at the Vatican.
The Cardinals who have flocked to Rome for this final farewell, will soon enter conclave where they will elect the next pope.
"I promise my obedience and respect for the next pope," Pope Benedict XVI said.
Along with the prestige that comes with the title of pope, Benedict's successor will also inherit challenges, anger, and wavering support in the wake of an ongoing clergy sex abuse scandal.
But for now, when the clock strikes 8 p.m. in Rome, Benedict XVI will be officially retired and there will be no pope in residence at the Vatican.
