Pope Francis, in a book-length interview published recently, has revealed previously confidential details about the 2005 and 2013 papal conclaves, exposing the political maneuvers used to sway votes during these elections. In 2005, Francis claimed he was used by cardinals who sought to block the election of then-Cardinal Joseph Ratzinger as pope, managing to sway 40 votes in his favor. However, he put an end to the maneuvering by announcing that he wouldn’t accept being pope, leading to Ratzinger’s election. In 2013, Francis realized after the fact that cardinals were supporting him, with Cardinal Santos Abril y Castelló hinting at his possible election just before the final ballot. Despite these revelations, Francis denied rumors that he is planning to reform the conclave rules for future papal elections.
In the book, Francis also settles some scores with Archbishop Georg Gaenswein, Benedict’s longtime secretary. Gaenswein was initially fired and exiled from the Vatican by Francis following a series of imprudent decisions that made life difficult for him. Gaenswein was believed to have fueled the anti-Francis opposition during Benedict’s retirement, leading to hiccups in the cohabitation of two popes. One incident in 2020 involved Cardinal Robert Sarah co-authoring a book with Benedict that reaffirmed the need for celibate priesthood, coinciding with Francis considering relaxing celibacy requirements. Francis blamed Gaenswein for this affair and subsequently asked him to take a voluntary leave, while keeping his title and salary.
Furthermore, the book also reveals Francis revising the protocol for papal funerals, stating that Benedict’s funeral would be the last to have the body of a pope exposed in an open coffin. This change aims to ensure that popes are buried in a dignified, yet not excessive manner, similar to any other member of the church. While Francis denied any plans for reforming the conclave rules, he acknowledged revising the funeral protocol as a means of maintaining dignity in such matters. He also dismissed rumors of any changes to limit pre-conclave discussions about the needs of the church for cardinals aged under 80.
Despite some criticism and backlash, Pope Francis expressed his determination to remain in his position, refuting claims that his health issues might lead to a resignation. In the book, he also defended Benedict XVI, stating that the former pope always supported him and never engaged in any conservative attacks or maneuvers against him. Francis highlighted that during Benedict’s funeral, his dry homily was in accordance with liturgical protocol and not indicative of any underlying issues between the two popes. By sharing these insights and details about past papal elections and experiences, Francis offers a glimpse into the political complexities and internal dynamics of the Vatican hierarchy.
Overall, the book-length interview with Pope Francis provides a rare and candid look into the inner workings of the papal elections and relationships within the Vatican. Through his revelations about past conclaves and experiences, Francis sheds light on the political maneuvering, tensions, and challenges faced by popes and cardinals during these crucial moments. By addressing rumors and settling scores with individuals like Archbishop Gaenswein, Francis clarifies his position and decisions, while also emphasizing the importance of maintaining dignity and respect within the papal hierarchy. The book offers valuable insights into the complexities of papal transitions and the intricacies of Vatican politics, providing readers with a deeper understanding of the challenges faced by the leader of the Catholic Church.
