Pope Francis and Pope Emeritus Benedict XVI

Francis and Benedict XVI meet at the helicopter pad at Castel Gandolfo,
 the papal summer  residence.

Yesterday Pope Francis met with Pope Emeritus Benedict XVI for around two hours. This meeting was very historic. Benedict was the first pope to retire in six centuries; normally, a new pope would never have the opportunity to meet his retired predecessor, as his predecessor would have passed away.

Francis also brought a gift to Benedict, an icon known as the “Madonna of Humility.” Immediately upon Francis’s arrival at Castel Gandolfo, the two went to pray together in a small chapel.

Together in prayer

Benedict at first offered Francis a special kneeler traditionally used by the pope, but Francis insisted that they pray together in the same pew. He is quoted as saying “We are brothers.”

The two had a private meeting that lasted about forty-five minutes, and Benedict renewed his vows of obedience and reverence to his successor, while Francis thanked Benedict for his service to the Church and his humility. The two are said to have abstained from formal titles and addressed each other familiarly.

Truly this is a good sign for the smooth passage of succession in this very strange and historic time for the papacy and the Church as whole! Many people want Francis to do many things in the coming months, and there are many problems that he has to address. After a few months, Benedict will return from Castel Gandolfo to the Vatican and reside in a monastery in the Vatican gardens. He will be a short walk away from St. Peter’s Basilica.