Europe

Benedict to spend retirement in seclusion

Outgoing pope plans to "remain hidden to the world" and will not exert influence over his successor.
Last Modified: 15 Feb 2013 09:56

Vatican officials have dismissed suggestions that the outgoing head of the Roman Catholic Church will exert influence over his successor.

Pope Benedict XVI told a meeting of priests that he plans to spend his future in seclusion.

"Even if I am withdrawing into prayer I will always be close to all of you and I am sure you will be close to me. ... Even if I remain hidden to the world," he said.

Al Jazeera's Andrew Simmons reports from Rome.

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Al Jazeera
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