Pope Francisco wishes Benedict XVI a merry Christmas

As part of his festive calendar, yesterday Pope Francis visited Emeritus Pope Benedict XVI. According to Vatican sources, Francis said he saw his predecesor, 86, in good condition.

“It was a pleasure to see you so well,” said Francisco to Benedict, who in February became the first pope to resign in 600 years instead of remaining in office until his death. The Jesuit Pope spent about 30 minutes with Benedict in a convent located in the grounds of the Vatican where Pope Benedict resides almost isolated.

In the pictures released by the Vatican see the Emeritus Pope looked more alert and in better health than before. He greeted Francisco, 77, standing supported by a cane. They walked to a chapel where they prayed before meeting privately in another room.

When Francisco was leaving , he said: “Merry Christmas, and pray for me.” Benedict said : ” Always, always, always .”