May 22, 2012. (Romereports.com) Benedict XVI had lunch with a group of cardinals at the Vatican. But aside from being colleagues, the Pope described them as friends.  He thanked them for being there, through the good times and the bad. “I'm surrounded by friends of the College of Cardinals: you are my friends and here I feel at home. I feel safe and accompanied by great friends and the Lord. Thank you for your friendship,” said Benedict XVI.

The gathering was held to celebrate Benedict XVI's 85th birthday and this seventh year as Pope. 

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