Pope Francis, 88, is undergoing treatment for a serious health issue after experiencing symptoms of bronchitis caused by inflammation of the bronchi lining. Jesuit Father Antonio Spadaro, a personal friend and advisor to the pope, says there’s no cause for alarm.
The situation is delicate but manageable, according to Spadaro. Pope Francis has been prescribed “absolute rest” but finds it challenging due to his busy schedule. Despite this, he continues reading newspapers, taking care of work, and making phone calls, showing remarkable vitality.
Spadaro notes that the pope’s extraordinary energy helps him accept his illness, a quality typical of Jesuits who “keep working while they’re alive and die in the trenches.” The priest emphasizes that Francis has no problem letting his weak condition show and is aware that he must take the necessary time to recover.
Regarding the possibility of Pope Benedict XVI’s resignation, Spadaro says Francis is aware that one governs with the head, not legs. He believes the pope will resign if he feels he can no longer lead the Church due to energy limitations, but a temporary health issue won’t stop him as long as he has the strength.
The Vatican confirmed Pope Francis’ hospitalization on February 14 and initially attributed his condition to bronchitis. However, Spadaro’s comments suggest that the situation is improving, and the pope is expected to recover completely.
Source: https://www.catholicnewsagency.com/news/262329/personal-friend-of-pope-francis-the-situation-is-delicate-but-i-ve-never-seen-any-cause-for-alarm