"Don't Let Anyone Write That I Said ..."

The Last Interview Given by Benedict XVI Before His Death

On 19 June 2022, Benedict XVI spoke to the German journalist Peter Seewald. The interview was a sweeping conversation that touched on Benedict's pontificate, the problems facing the Church, and the legacy he hoped to leave behind. It was also a deeply personal conversation in which Benedict spoke openly about his faith, his hopes, and his fears.

The interview was published in the German newspaper Die Zeit on June 22, 2022. It quickly became a global news story and was translated into numerous languages. It has been praised as a candid and insightful look into the mind of one of the most important religious figures of our time.

One of the most striking things about the interview is Benedict's humility. He repeatedly emphasizes that he is a simple man who has been called to a great task. He also acknowledges his own weaknesses and failings.

For example, when asked about his legacy, Benedict says:

"I am not a prophet and I do not know what the future holds. I can only hope that my work will be useful to people and that it will help them to find God."

Benedict's humility is also evident in his comments on the problems facing the Church. He acknowledges that the Church is facing many challenges, but he also expresses his confidence that the Church will overcome these challenges and continue to be a force for good in the world.

For example, when asked about the decline in the number of priests, Benedict says:

"The decline in the number of priests is a serious problem, but it is not a fatal problem. The Church has faced many challenges in its history, and it has always overcome them. I am confident that the Church will overcome this challenge as well."

Benedict's confidence in the future of the Church is based on his faith in Jesus Christ. He believes that Christ is the founder of the Church and that the Church is guided by the Holy Spirit. He also believes that the Church is essential for the salvation of the world.

In the interview, Benedict speaks openly about his own faith. He describes his faith as a personal relationship with Jesus Christ. He also says that his faith has been a source of strength and comfort to him throughout his life.

For example, when asked about the death of his parents, Benedict says:

"The death of my parents was a great loss for me, but I was comforted by my faith. I knew that they were with God and that I would see them again one day."

Benedict's faith is also evident in his comments on the problems facing the world. He believes that the world is in need of redemption and that only Christ can provide that redemption.

For example, when asked about the war in Ukraine, Benedict says:

"The war in Ukraine is a tragedy. I pray for the people of Ukraine and for all those who are suffering from this war. I also pray that this war will end soon and that peace will be restored."

The interview with Benedict XVI is a valuable document that provides insights into the mind of one of the most important religious figures of our time. It is a candid and insightful look into Benedict's faith, his hopes, and his fears. It is also a reminder of the importance of humility, faith, and hope in the face of the challenges of the world.