Pope received the Cardinals of the “Vatileaks” Commission

Ongoing speculations about a secret dossier on the so-called “Vatileaks” affair. Benedict XVI. received those three Cardinals that had presented him the report in December.

pope-benedict-thoughtful

On Monday, Benedict XVI. received the three Cardinals in charge of the investigation regarding the “Vatileaks” affair. It was four days before the end of his pontificate, that Benedict had held talks with the retired cardinals Julian Herranz, Jozef Tomko and Salvatore De Giorgi, according to sources from the Vatican. The three Cardinals had presented their second secret report to the Pope on December 17. This, so the view of the Italian media, had been the decisive factor for Benedict’s the resignation.

Files will keep new Pope busy

The mandate of the Cardinal’s Commission ended last year, the Vatican spokesman said. The Pope thanked the Cardinals for their investigations. “In fact, their work made it possible to detect, given the limitations and imperfections of the human component of each institution, the generosity, honesty and dedication of those who work in the Holy See at the service of the mission entrusted by Christ to the Roman Pontiff.”, it said in a press release.

Meaningful Meetings

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Benedict XVI.: schedule of events and meetings for the remaining days

In about two weeks time, Pope Benedict’s pontificate will be history: But before that the Pope is gone on 28th February, he has yet to fulfill one’s duties. An overview.

Thursday, February 14: Morning meeting with the Roman clergy in the Vatican audience hall. The Pope responds to questions the priest ask him on this occasion or speaks without notes.
Friday, February 15: Reception of Romanian President Traian Basescu in a private audience. Also: Meeting with Italian Bishops.
Saturday, February 16: Reception of the President of Guatemala, Otto Fernando Pérez Molina. Besides: Reception with Italian Bishops. Also: Pope Benedict XVI. meets Prime Minister Mario Monti.
Sunday, February 17: At 12 clock penultimate noon Angelus prayer in St. Peter’s Square. In the evening, the beginning of Lent retreat of the Curia – traditionally no public appearances during the following week, no services and no general audience.
Friday, February 22: The Pope addresses a few words of thanks at the end of the fast retreat of the Curia.
Saturday, February 23: Benedict meets Italian President Giorgio Napolitano for an audience.
Sunday, February 24: Last Angelus at 12 p.m. in St. Peter’s Square.
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