Pope Benedict gives final Sunday blessing from Vatican

Pope Benedict XVI has given his final Sunday blessing at the Vatican before he steps down on Thursday.

In his last Angelus in St Peter's Square, he told thousands of cheering pilgrims his decision did not mean he was abandoning the Church.

Cardinals are gathering to choose the next pope amid fears Church sex abuse scandals may overshadow the process.

The BBC's James Robbins says the Vatican has responded angrily to new claims of sexual abuse by the Church.