Why I never understood the Benedict resignation:
"Our Apostles also knew, through our Lord Jesus Christ, that there would be contention over the bishop's office. So, for this cause, having received complete foreknowledge, they appointed the above mentioned men, and afterwards gave them a permanent character, so that, AS THEY DIED, other approved men should succeed to their ministry."
Saint Clement, Bishop of Rome, Letter to the Corinthians, Chapter 44. First Century