NEW YORK, N.Y. - New York Cardinal Timothy Dolan says he was as startled as the rest of the world about Pope Benedict XVI's announcement that he will resign later this month due to failing health.

Dolan, speaking on the "Today" show Monday, says he feels a special bond with the pope because he was the one that appointed him archbishop of New York.

Dolan would be part of the College of Cardinals electing a new pope. He says the conclave would do well to look for the qualities Pope Benedict possessed: knowledge about the world, a theological depth, personal piety and linguistic talent.

At a news conference later, Dolan said it would be "highly improbable" for him to be considered for the papacy. But joking with a reporter, he asked, "Is that why you're kneeling?"

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