Pope Francis pays Christmas visit to Benedict XVI

http://www.theguardian.com/world/2013/dec/23/pope-francis-christmas-visit-benedict

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Pope Francis has visited his predecessor, Emeritus Pope Benedict XVI, to exchange Christmas greetings.

Photos released by the Vatican newspaper show the two men, dressed in identical white robes apart from the cape worn by Francis, talking in a sitting room inside Benedict's retirement home during the visit on Monday. They also prayed together in the adjoining chapel.

Benedict was looking well, using a cane for support while they stood in prayer.

It is the first time the interior of Benedict's home has been shown publicly; the sitting room and furniture are all white and an Advent wreath decorates the coffee table.

Since Benedict's retirement in February, the two men have met only once publicly, for an official Vatican ceremony in July. They also have met privately and have spoken occasionally by telephone.

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