Francis shares that he often visits Benedict and always leaves "edified."
An interview with Pope Francis by the Spanish ABC network was released December 17, on the Pope's birthday.
Among the many topics addressed by the journalists was the ten years that have passed since Benedict XVI retired.
The Pope responded by saying that he visits his predecessor frequently, "and I leave edified by his clear gaze."
"He lives in contemplation. ... He has a good sense of humor and is very lucid, very alive. He speaks very softly, but follows the conversation. I admire his intelligence," the Pope added.
Francis said simply of the Pope Emeritus: "He's a great one."
"And what do you most appreciate about him," the reporters asked Francis.
"That he's a saint. He's a man of great spiritual life."
