Pope Benedict XVI's papacy focused on re-affirming traditional Catholic teachings, particularly in response to secularism and relativism. His resignation in 2013 was the first by a pope in nearly 600 years, due to health concerns. Birth name: Joseph Aloisius Ratzinger Nationality: Italy, Germany, Vatican City Born: April 16, 1927 Died: December 31, 2022 Pontificate: April 19, 2005 – February 28, 2013