Pope Benedict XVI Resignation: Local Leader Prays for Guidance for Catholic Church

Pope Benedict XVI's announcement that he plans to retire at the end of the month is surprising but not a shock.

The Pope, who is 85 and has had health issues, cited his advanced age as a reason he can no longer carry out his papal duties. He said he planned to retire by the end of the month.

"I wouldn't say it is a shock, but I would say it is a surprise," said Tom Keating, the principal of Cedar Rapids Xavier, which draws students from throughout Linn and Benton Counties.

"If you think about his failing health, it's not a shock, but it is unusual," Keating said.

The Pope is typically a role the person appointed keeps until death. Benedict would be the first Pope in six centuries to resign before death, according to the New York Times.

Benedict has been Pope since 2005. He succeeded John Paul II after his death.

Pope Gregory XII resigned in 1415 to end the "Great Western Schism," a rift in which there were rival claims to the papal throne, according to CNN.

Keating said theology classes will be discussing the Pope's announcement today.

He said he is praying for guidance for Church leaders and a smooth transition. Keating said he also takes comfort that Pope Benedict recognized he may longer be the most effective leader for the Church and stepped aside on his own.

"It's more important that we have effective leadership than one human being who remains in that position until death," Keating said.