Pope Francis on Benedict XVI
Pope Francis has characterized his relationship with Pope Emeritus Benedict XVI as one marked by deep mutual respect and a sense of profound solidarity throughout their nearly ten years of cohabitation in the Vatican. Francis has emphasized that their communication was direct, without needing intermediaries, and that the retired pope offered him quiet encouragement and support. He frames Benedict XVI as a man of integrity who was never attached to power, citing the resignation as a very forward-thinking and progressive act.
Francis reiterates his admiration for Benedict XVI's theological depth, referring to him as a "child prodigy of theology" and a "holy man." He contrasts Benedict’s meekness—which he asserts was not weakness but strength—with the actions of certain aides who reportedly took advantage of his kindness. The current Pope noted that Benedict XVI often helped him by "enlarging the perspective" on issues, which aided Francis in making good decisions, even if they did not always fully agree on every point.
The Pope has also spoken publicly about moments of tension involving Benedict XVI's entourage, particularly concerning the controversial publication of a book that supposedly involved the retired pope. Pope Francis stated that some individuals close to Benedict XVI gradually "fenced him off" and that Benedict XVI "always defended me" against critics. He also revealed that the retired pope stood by him when some cardinals asked for him to be put on trial over his support for civil unions, telling them, "That is not heresy."
Context
The context for Pope Francis's comments is the unprecedented situation of two men holding the title of Pope—one reigning and one emeritus—coexisting within the Vatican City State after Benedict XVI’s resignation in 2013. This required careful navigation to maintain the unity and authority of the Petrine ministry. Pope Francis has consistently sought to define this new dynamic, emphasizing continuity alongside the necessary differences between pontificates.
Pope Francis also discussed the complexities surrounding the end of Benedict XVI's life and tensions that arose with his former secretary, Archbishop Georg Gänswein. The Pope mentioned asking the Archbishop to take a leave of absence following controversy over a book, an incident that suggests internal friction related to the retired pope’s circle. This highlights the delicate political environment surrounding the retired pontiff.
Actions Taken
- Pastoral AppealAsked the faithful to pray for Pope Emeritus Benedict XVI when his health worsened significantly.
- Personal VisitVisited Pope Emeritus Benedict XVI shortly before his death, following the public appeal for prayers.
- Correspondence RecordKept all correspondence received from Benedict XVI following his resignation.
Key Quotes
"He always defended me."
"His resignation was an act of integrity. He was a man that was not at all attached to power."
"If there was a man than went forward, that was progressive, it was him... Also, the decision to resign was very forward-thinking, very progressive."
"We maintained a very deep relationship, I want that to be known, and without intermediaries."
Comparison
- Decision to Resign: Pope Francis views Benedict XVI's resignation as "progressive" and an act of integrity, showing support for the unprecedented decision itself.
- Theological Stance: Francis admits that he and Benedict *never talked about Traditionis Custodes*** (restrictions on the Latin Mass), indicating a potential area where their views might not have fully aligned or were not discussed openly.
- Interference: Francis stresses that Benedict XVI "never interfered" and always supported him, contrasting this with the actions of his entourage who sometimes hindered his work or tried to limit Benedict’s interactions.
Sources5
Pope Francis on his relationship with Benedict: 'He always defended me'
* This is not an exhaustive list of sources.