{{The former Pope, Benedict XVI, has denied any role in covering up child sex abuse by priests, in his first public comments since retirement.}}<\/p>\n
The emeritus Pope, as he is now known, addressed the issue in a detailed letter to a prominent atheist, which also covered many other matters.<\/p>\n
It is thought to be the first time that Benedict has publicly rejected personal responsibility for covering up abuse.<\/p>\n
Some critics say he must have known of efforts to protect abusive priests.<\/p>\n
Benedict’s letter, to the professor of mathematics Piergiorgio Odifreddi, was published in La Repubblica newspaper after the professor sought the former Pope’s permission.<\/p>\n
His comments are the first to be released publicly since he left office, saying he would retreat to a life of prayer. He was apparently concerned not to have a public role that might impinge on his successor, Pope Francis.<\/p>\n
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