“[He chose this particular Basilica] because of the great devotion he has for the Virgin Salus Populi Romani (a Byzantine icon representing the Madonna and Child),” Alazraki continued.
“[He also revealed] that he is simplifying the papal funeral rite.”
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.
ANSA
