Two pope trouble: Benedict heads back to the Vatican

Fears former pope's move back into Vatican could make him 'lightning rod' for Pope Francis' critics

pope-bendedict-270213.jpg
(Image credit: Getty Images)

HISTORY will be made at the Vatican today when Pope Benedict moves into a new home in the city state, not far from the residence occupied by his successor Pope Francis.

Prior to his resignation, 86-year-old Benedict (above) said he would "withdraw into prayer" and live his final years "hidden from the world". But USA Today says there are fears that the "staunchly conservative former pope" could become a "lightning rod" for members of the church who oppose Francis's reforms.

Subscribe to The Week

Escape your echo chamber. Get the facts behind the news, plus analysis from multiple perspectives.

SUBSCRIBE & SAVE
https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/flexiimages/jacafc5zvs1692883516.jpg

Sign up for The Week's Free Newsletters

From our morning news briefing to a weekly Good News Newsletter, get the best of The Week delivered directly to your inbox.

From our morning news briefing to a weekly Good News Newsletter, get the best of The Week delivered directly to your inbox.

Sign up
To continue reading this article...
Continue reading this article and get limited website access each month.
Get unlimited website access, exclusive newsletters plus much more.
Cancel or pause at any time.
Already a subscriber to The Week?
Not sure which email you used for your subscription? Contact us