In an exclusive interview with
Mexican broadcaster N+, Pope Francis "revealed that he has
prepared his tomb in the Basilica of St Mary Major because of
the great devotion he has for the Virgin Salus Populi Romani (a
Byzantine icon representing the Madonna and Child, ed.) and that
he is simplifying the papal funeral rite", journalist Valentina
Alazraki has said on X, formerly Twitter.
Francis typically prays before the 'Salus Populi Romani' in the
papal basilica in Rome ahead of papal visits and other important
engagements.
The pope reportedly also told the veteran Vatican correspondent
that "when old age and limitations arrive, one must get ready"
and "that is why he met with the master of ceremonies to
simplify the papal funeral, which will be much simpler". "I will
launch the new ritual with humour," Alazraki quotes Francis as
saying.
Francis also allegedly told the Mexican journalist that "despite
the health problems he has had this year he has never considered
resigning".
On his predecessor's historic decision to step down from the
papacy in February 2013, the Argentine pontiff allegedly said
Pope Benedict XVI "was a great and humble man who, when he
became aware of his limitations, had the courage to say
'Enough'".
"Benedict's example does me good, but I ask the Lord to be able
to say 'Enough' at any time, but only when He wants it," added
the pope.
Francis also reportedly "confirmed receipt of the invitation
from president Javier Milei" to travel to Argentina.
During his recent election campaign, the radical right-wing
Milei said the pope "has an affinity for murderous communists"
and that he is "representative of evil on Earth".
"Things said during an election campaign blow over on their
own," the pope reportedly told Alazraki in the interview.
At the close of the campaign Milei's staff also called for "the
suspension of diplomatic relations with the Holy See as long as
a totalitarian spirit prevails in the Church".
The Vatican and Pope Francis never replied.
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