But during the service, Francis noted the “darkness of war, of cruelty.” He said: “We all pray for you and with you. We pray because there is so much suffering. We can only give you our company, our prayers and say” courage, we accompany you “. He ended by saying “Christ is Risen” in Ukrainian. Francis is known for his calmness under pressure and has received praise for his own ability to calm storms, especially during the coronavirus pandemic.
Pope Francis in contrast to the “never popular Benedict” as the controversy in the Vatican over a new head began (Image: GETTY)
Pope Francis replaces Benedict in 2013 (Image: GETTY) An issue he was constantly facing has come into his church and those who argue that he was not the natural successor of the leader he replaced, Pope Benedict. Divisions have erupted within the church following Benedict’s unprecedented resignation in 2013, which he said came as a result of his deteriorating health. Since then, Francis has pursued a more liberal agenda, a major shift from Benedict’s own traditional approach. Some still recognize Benedict as a pope, arguing that he was forced to resign by other senior members of the Vatican. JUST IN: Ukraine criticizes Pope’s attempt to reconcile for Easter
Pope Francis on Easter Sunday (Image: GETTY) This even led Benedict to intervene himself, saying of the “conspiracy theories” that were being said and reminding the faithful “there is only one Pope”. Benedict’s intervention has been criticized by some Vatican historians, including author Lynda Telford, who wrote Women in the Vatican – Female Power in a Male World. Speaking to Express.co.uk, Ms Telford discussed how Benedict was not as popular as some of the experts claimed, noting that “he was asked to leave because of his inability to show that serious issues were being addressed”. He said: “It has never been popular with the faithful in a personal sense. “I remember a lady waiting outside St. Peter to see the Pope, saying, ‘I would stand here hoping to see Francis, but I certainly would not stay here waiting to see Benedict!’ DON’T MISS: “In the name of God, stop before cities are turned into cemeteries” [LATEST]Pope Francis denounces “barbaric” war in Ukraine [ANALYSIS]”Shameful capitulation” Pope Francis condemns invasion of Ukraine after v [INSIGHT]
Pope Francis during the Coronavirus Pandemic (Image: GETTY) “He failed to connect with ordinary people and was therefore a poor person. “People do not want a distant, academic leader, no matter how smart he is.” Ms. Telford explained that she felt that the faithful “want a man who can get on the tram, visit hospitals and prisons and reach out.” But he added: “Vatican supporters want leaders who support their privileged positions and do not rock the boats. “People want someone who cares, and Benedict never did.
Pope Francis came to power in 2013 (Image: GETTY) “Finding a pastoral pope like Francis must have seemed ideal, let him lead from the front while they rule from behind. “Unfortunately it was not what they expected, so the traditional reaction began.” As Benedict became the first living pope to resign 600 years ago, he maintains his home in the Vatican and also continues to wear white – something that usually only a pope would wear. The Easter vigil on Holy Saturday afternoon in St. Peter’s Basilica, which was attended by Francis, was full of 5,500 pilgrims, creating stunning scenes for the spectators.
