The revelations in a recent book-length interview have brought to light the political maneuvers that influenced the elections of the two most recent popes, although the current pope denies any intention to reform the process for future conclaves.
The book, titled "The Successor: My Memories of Benedict XVI," features a conversation between Pope Francis and the correspondent for Spain’s ABC daily, Javier Martínez-Brocal.
In the book, Francis discusses his relationship with the late Pope Benedict XVI and addresses some lingering issues with Benedict’s longtime aide.
The timing of the book's release is notable, given the delicate health of the 87-year-old Francis and the speculation surrounding the duration of his papacy, the possibility of his resignation, and the question of his successor.
Francis reveals previously undisclosed details about the 2005 conclave that elected Benedict and the 2013 election in which he himself was elected pope.
He explains that he deviated from the cardinals’ oath of secrecy because, as pope, he had the authority to do so.
Regarding the 2005 conclave, Francis states that he was unwittingly used by cardinals who wanted to prevent the election of Benedict (then Cardinal Joseph Ratzinger).
They managed to sway 40 out of 115 votes in his favor, not with the intention of electing him but to force a compromise candidate after blocking Ratzinger.
This, he says, demonstrates that the process was more about political calculations than divine inspiration.
Francis also discusses the 2013 conclave, revealing that he only realized afterward that cardinals were rallying behind him.
He recounts an incident involving Spanish Cardinal Santos Abril y Castelló, who questioned him about his physical health just before the final ballot, indicating growing support for his candidacy.
Despite these revelations, Francis denies rumors that he intends to reform the conclave rules for future papal elections.
However, he does mention revising the protocol for papal funerals, indicating that Benedict's funeral would be the last in which the body of a pope is displayed in an open coffin.
Additionally, the book touches on Francis' strained relationship with Archbishop Georg Gaenswein, Benedict's longtime secretary.
Francis describes Gaenswein's actions as making his life difficult and suggests that Gaenswein may have been behind efforts to undermine him, including the publication of a book by Cardinal Robert Sarah and Benedict that coincided with Francis considering changes to celibacy requirements for priests in the Amazon region.
Throughout the interview, Francis emphasizes his respect for Benedict, denying any suggestion that Benedict was involved in conservative attacks against him. He insists that Benedict always supported him and deferred to his authority.
In conclusion, the book provides a revealing look at the internal workings of the Vatican and the complex relationships among its key figures. It offers insight into the challenges faced by Pope Francis during his papacy and sheds light on the political dynamics that shape the selection of the pope.