Archbishop Georg Gänswein is the personal secretary of Pope emeritus Benedict XVI. The archbishop has remained by his side and read communiqués on his behalf.
At an event held by Rome Reports in 2021, on the occasion of the 70th anniversary of Pope emeritus Benedict XVI's priesthood, Archbishop Gänswein spoke of his declining health and the calm way the Pope emeritus himself described facing it.
ABP. GEORG GÄNSWEIN
Secretary to Pope Benedict XVI
Physically, he is very weak, very fragile. But thank God, his mind continues to work very well. And, unfortunately, his voice is also very weak. That is, he has difficulty speaking. He is in a good mood though and he says, “every day, I start with the Lord and finish with the Lord. And, then we will see how long it lasts.”
Before his condition worsened, Pope emeritus Benedict XVI celebrated Mass every day. But, as his strength waned, he began con-celebrating Mass with his secretary.
ABP. GEORG GÄNSWEIN
Secretary to Pope Benedict XVI
That is, unfortunately, he is no longer able to stay standing for half an hour. So he con-celebrates, sitting in the wheelchair next to the altar, and I am the main celebrant. But this is every day. There has not been a day when he has not celebrated or con-celebrated the Mass.
Together with doctors and four lay women, Archbishop Gänswein is part of the health team accompanying Pope emeritus Benedict XVI and constantly monitoring his situation.
RM
TR: KG
