Pope Francis visits Benedict XVI to offer Easter and birthday wishes

By Deborah Castellano Lubov

Pope Francis made a special visit to Pope Emeritus Benedict XVI on Wednesday afternoon to offer his best wishes for Easter and for his 95th birthday.

According to a brief statement released by Director of the Holy See Press Office, Matteo Bruni, the Holy Father visited the Mater Ecclesiae Monastery residence in the Vatican where Benedict resides.

Throughout his pontificate, Pope Francis has visited Benedict for Easter, interrupted only due to the Covid-19 pandemic.

"After a brief and affectionate conversation, and after praying together, Pope Francis returned to Casa Santa Marta," said Mr. Bruni.

Benedict XVI will celebrate his 95th birthday on Holy Saturday, 16 April.

Joseph Ratzinger was born and baptized in his native Bavaria on Holy Saturday, 95 years ago, in 1927.