A close aide to Benedict XVI published a book on Thursday that reveals tensions between the pope emeritus, who died two weeks ago, and his successor, Pope Francis.
“Nient’altro che la verità . La mia vita al fianco di Benedetto XVI” (“Nithing but the truth. My life with Benedict XVI”) by Georg Conswein describes Joseph’s accession to the throne of Saint Peter Ratzinger. , his pontificate (2005-2013) was rocked by scandals and he retired as a monastic following his surprise resignation.
The Vatican has not officially responded to Conswein’s criticism of the Argentine pope – as reported in the press – but the 66-year-old German cleric has been invited to a closed-door audience with Francis.
Conswein said Francis “broke the heart” of his predecessor by reversing his decision to use Latin at Mass.
Benedict XVI, who died on December 31 at the age of 95, was seen as a symbol of the more conservative wing of the Catholic Church, which sees Francis as a more progressive figure.
“Away from the World”
Conswein had been Ratzinger’s private secretary since 2003, before he was elected pope, and was a special witness to what went on behind the scenes of his papacy.
During the funeral procession of the Pope Emeritus, he welcomed visitors to the funeral chapel located in St. Peter’s Basilica. In a final farewell service presided over by Francis, he kissed his mentor’s coffin in front of thousands of faithful.
Expressing the confusion Benedict XVI felt about some of his successor’s decisions, the archbishop did not refrain from questioning his immediate superior, the current head of the Church.
After his resignation in 2013, the first by a pope since the Middle Ages, Benedict XVI pledged to live “apart from the world” but has repeatedly intervened in explosive issues, such as in 2020 when he spoke in favor of maintaining celibacy for priests.
After that episode, Pope Francis stripped him of his administrative responsibilities as head of the Pontifical Family of the Holy See, though he retained his position, Conswein says.
According to Conswein, Francisco told him: “From today, stay at home. Act as a shield, along with the bento you need.”
When he told Benedict XVI what had happened, he replied: “Apparently Pope Francis does not trust me and has made you my guardian.”
His close relationship with Benedict XVI created jealousy, he says in his memoirs. However, his relations with Francis have always remained chilly, and the publication of the controversial book is unlikely to improve them.
According to Vatican watchers, Argentina may appoint the papal consvein as ambassador to distance him from the Holy See and its machinations.
“Hardcore explorer. Extreme communicator. Professional writer. General music practitioner. Prone to fits of apathy.”