"Pope Francis and Benedict XVI: Legacies Intersect Amidst Faith, Blessings, and Criticism"

In his Angelus address on December 31, 2023, Pope Francis commemorated the one-year anniversary of Pope Benedict XVI's passing, stating that Benedict continues to bless and guide the Church from heaven. He reflected on the hardships faced by the Holy Family, emphasizing the importance of marveling at God's presence in life, and the role of tenderness and wisdom within families. Pope Francis also expressed solidarity with victims of recent tragedies in Nigeria and Liberia, and called for prayers for those affected by conflicts in Ukraine, Palestine and Israel, Sudan, and the Rohingya in Indonesia. He concluded by wishing everyone a peaceful end of the year and looked forward to 2024.