Benedict: Charisma of Pope Francis confirms abdication decision

The former Pope Benedict has revealed he decided to step down as pope because God told him to.

A Catholic news agency said the 86-year-old underwent a "mystical experience" lasting several months.

He said the experience had given him an "absolute desire" to devote his life to quiet prayer instead of the more public role of pope.

He said the charisma of his successor Pope Francis had confirmed to him how his abdication was the will of God.