With Pope Benedict XVI's retirement Thursday, Northeast Ohio's Catholic community is marking the day.

Cleveland diocese Bishop Richard Lennon celebrated a Mass of Thanksgiving at St. John's Cathedral in downtown Cleveland, just hours before Benedict stepped down.

In a video statement released by the diocese, Bishop Lennon said Pope Benedict was known for his unfailing service to the church.

"He poured out his life in a way that was marked by humility," Bishop Lennon said, "doing whatever the church asked."

Bishop Lennon said that Benedict realized his health limitations would prevent him from continuing in that service to the Catholic Church.

"And when it came to his own awareness of a decrease in his physical strength, he realized that he was not able to do what needed to be done," Bishop Lennon said.

Bishop Lennon said Benedict leaves a legacy in the church as he steps down, saying the former Pope has "enriched our lives with his leadership and his writings", that will continue to strengthen everyone in the Catholic Church for many years to come.