The current concern over the health of the Pope reminded me of something I'd read (or heard) a few times. Apparently the Pope has written a letter of resignation (or whatever it's called in the church) which will be presented when he feels that he can no longer perform his responsibilities. I know that John Paul II doesn't actually have his hands on the day-to-day running of the Vatican, but I'm wondering if anyone knows at what point someone other than the Pontiff would make such a decision?

Perhaps he has instructions in place for such an event, but should he slip into a coma or otherwise be unable to order/request the resignation is there something in place to gather the College of Cardinals who would vote on his successor?

This lapsed Catholic is just curious. :-)