Benedict XVI Never Criticized Restrictions of Latin Mass - Archbishop Gänswein

Retired Pope Benedict XVI never criticised the restrictions placed on the Mass in the Roman rite by Pope Francis, Archbishop Georg Gänswein told LaRepubblica.it on 20 April.

Monsignor Gänswein claimed that Benedict XVI was deeply saddened when he learned about the Traditionis custodes document, but chose not to comment on it.

Reflecting on the relationship between the two popes, Archbishop Gänswein described their differences as ultimately complementary and 'enriching' for the Church.

He now downplayed suggestions of tensions between Benedict XVI and Francis, clarifying that not many conservatives approached Benedict XVI to voice concerns about Francis.

Furthermore, Archbishop Gänswein offered cautious criticism of Francis's notorious remark in July 2013 regarding homosexuals: "If someone is gay and seeks the Lord in good faith, who am I to judge?" Monsignor Gänswein noted that such a statement was "at least surprising coming from a pope".

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