In a new interview book titled "The Successor," set to be published tomorrow, Pope Francis candidly spoke about the tensions he experienced with German Archbishop Georg Gänswein, the private secretary of his predecessor, Benedict XVI. The Pope revealed that Gänswein had made things "difficult" for him during his papacy.

During an interview with Spanish journalist Javier Martinez-Brocal for ABC Español, Pope Francis discussed the comparisons often made between himself and Benedict, stating that such comparisons were normal. He expressed his belief that certain things were falsely attributed to Benedict XVI, and criticized those who viewed Benedict's resignation as "the end of the Church" and as having caused significant harm, considering it an "ideological position."

Pope Francis recounted an incident involving Gänswein, without mentioning his name, where the Archbishop took the initiative to bring someone who opposed the Pope's decision to Benedict's presence. Francis explained that this act led to the spread of a photo implying that Benedict was endorsing his decision, which he felt was incorrect.

The Pope also revealed that he confided in Benedict about Gänswein's behavior, noting that the secretary had done some "difficult things" to him. Moreover, Francis disclosed an episode where he replaced the head of a Vatican department, which generated controversy. These revelations shed light on the dynamics within the Vatican during Francis' papacy.

Additionally, Pope Francis clarified that he had not consulted Benedict about his decision to roll back the liberalization of the use of the Traditional Latin Mass. However, he praised Benedict for defending him when facing criticism regarding his support for civil unions for gay couples. Francis shared that, in a meeting with a group of cardinals, Benedict calmly explained the distinction between civil unions and sacramental marriage, referring to such criticism as "not a heresy."

The Pope also addressed tensions with other supporters of Benedict, particularly regarding a book published last year, "From the Depths of our Hearts," which seemed to align the former Pope with Cardinal Robert Sarah in defending priestly celibacy. Francis shared that he asked Gänswein to take a voluntary leave following the uproar to maintain his position as Prefect of the Papal Household and his salary. The Pope acknowledged that Sarah was a man of prayer but believed he had been manipulated by separatist groups during his tenure in the Vatican's department of liturgy.

Furthermore, Pope Francis reminisced about Benedict's fight against the clerical abuse crisis, emphasizing his dedication to investigating and seeking justice. The Pope applauded Benedict's actions concerning the disgraced Legionaries of Christ founder, Father Marcial Maciel Degollado, as an example of his determination to address the issue.

When asked about his relationship with Benedict, Pope Francis emphasized the former Pope's unwavering support and praised his progressive mindset. He discussed their regular meetings and dialogues, highlighting their open discussions on various topics, including the controversial "Synodal Path" reform process in Germany.

Regarding Benedict's resignation, Francis noted that he learned about it shortly after the announcement and recounted visiting Benedict after one of his general audiences. During their meeting, Benedict shared documents related to the Vatileaks scandal and suggested individuals he believed should be removed from positions of power, which Francis considered.

In the interview, Pope Francis also addressed rumors of potential reforms to the conclave, reassuring that there were no such plans at the moment. He mentioned that while the possibility of future papal resignations existed, he did not feel the need to resign at this time.

The insights shared by Pope Francis in "The Successor" provide a rare glimpse into the complex dynamics within the Vatican and shed light on his relationship with Benedict XVI, highlighting moments of tension, mutual support, and ideological differences.