August 19, 2005 – Becomes the second pope in history to visit a synagogue when he speaks at the Roonstrasse Synagogue in Cologne ... assumed the papacy in 1978. Benedict also visits the ...

The first pope to resign since Gregory XII in 1415. Served as chief theological adviser to Pope John Paul II. As dean of the College of Cardinals, it was his duty to call the cardinals to Rome for ...