Pope Benedict XVI recently debunked resignation “conspiracy theories” in an interview with Italian newspaper Corriere della Sera.
The Pope Emeritus announced his resignation on February 11, 2013, officially leaving the post on Feb. 28th, 2013.
“There are not two popes. The pope is just one!” he told the outlet. “It was a difficult decision, but I made it in full awareness, and I believe I did it very well.”
He added that no “secret reason” drove the decision.
“Some of my somewhat ‘fanatical’ friends are still angry. They did not want to accept my choice.
“They believe in conspiracy theories. Some said it was because of the Vatileaks scandal, others because of a plot by the gay lobby, still others because of the case of conservative Lefebvrian theologian Richard Williamson. They do not want to believe in a choice made consciously.”
“But my conscience is clear.”
Pope Benedict also commented on Pope Francis’ trip to Iraq this week.
“I think it is a very important trip,” he explained.
“Unfortunately, it comes at a very difficult time that also makes it a dangerous trip for security reasons and also because of Covid-19. There is also the unstable Iraqi situation. I will accompany Francis with my prayer.”
Pray for Pope Francis and Pope Emeritus Benedict XVI!
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