Pope Benedict XVI’s historic resignation in 2013 has left a lasting impact on the Catholic Church, with some speculating that his successor, Pope Francis, might consider doing the same due to health concerns. After spending two weeks in hospital battling pneumonia, speculation is intensifying about whether Francis will follow in Benedict’s footsteps and step down from the papacy.
Austen Ivereigh, a papal biographer, believes that Francis would only consider resignation if he had a long-term degenerative or debilitating condition preventing him from carrying out his duties. However, there are concerns about Francis’ health after he was put on a breathing machine due to a sudden episode of respiratory difficulty.
The Vatican has described Francis’ medical picture as “complex,” and it remains unclear how long he will remain in hospital or what his long-term prognosis is. The 88-year-old pope’s determination to recover despite battling pneumonia in both lungs has shown that he is driven by a deep sense of mission.
Francis’ past statements on the papacy being “ad vitam” (meaning “for life”) have led some to believe that resignation is not on his agenda. Nevertheless, Ivereigh notes that Francis has never ruled out resigning and has said Benedict’s decision had “opened the door” to future popes retiring.
With the Catholic Church in the middle of a year-long jubilee celebration, any potential speculation about Francis’ health could have significant implications for the church. However, Archbishop Paul Gallagher has downplayed concerns, saying that Francis will give everything to recover and that resignation is not on the cards.
Source: https://edition.cnn.com/2025/03/01/europe/pope-francis-health-resignation-speculation-vatican-intl/index.html