Pope Francis visits predecessor on eve of Christmas
http://voiceofrussia.com/news/2013_12_24/Pope-Francis-visits-predecessor-on-eve-of-Christmas-8286/
Pope Francis on Monday paid a visit to his predecessor, Pope
Emeritus Benedict XVI, a day before the new spiritual leader of the world's 1.2
billion Catholics was due to lead Christmas celebrations for the first time.
The two men prayed and chatted for about 45 minutes, a
statement said, in the former convent inside the Vatican's walls where Benedict
resides.
German-born Benedict became the first pope in centuries to
resign in February, with Argentine-born Francis elected to replace him in
March.
The two still have regular contact, despite disapproval from
traditionalists who believe there can only be one pope.
On Christmas Eve, Francis to celebrate mass in Saint Peter's
Basilica, one of the grandest ceremonies in Catholic liturgy.
Voice of Russia,
DPA