Rome, Italy – Shockwaves spread through the Catholic Church when Pope Benedict XVI became the first pope to resign in 600 years. With Pope Francis now spending two weeks in the hospital due to pneumonia, speculation arises in the Vatican about whether he might follow in Benedict’s footsteps.
Austen Ivereigh, a papal biographer, shared that Pope Francis would only consider resignation under specific circumstances, like a long-term debilitating condition hindering his ability to fulfill his papal duties. Recently, the Vatican announced that the Pope had to be put on a breathing machine due to respiratory issues and vomiting, although he has not experienced further crises since then.
Unlike other leadership positions, the papacy has no term limits and is considered a lifelong commitment. Nonetheless, modern medical advancements and longer life expectancies have raised questions about the possibility of a pope resigning due to age or health complications.
The memory of Benedict XVI’s surprising resignation in 2013 resurfaced as Pope Francis called a consistory meeting to discuss sainthood candidates, reminiscent of the events leading up to Benedict’s decision. Vatican commentator Marco Politi noted that these meetings had become more political following Benedict’s resignation.
While Pope Francis has stated that the papacy is for life, he has kept the option of resigning open, citing Benedict’s resignation as opening the door for future popes. The pope’s recent hospitalization due to pneumonia in both lungs has raised concerns about his health, but Archbishop Paul Gallagher emphasized Francis’s determination to recover fully.
Although the possibility of a papal resignation is uncertain, Francis’s willingness to make unexpected decisions keeps the public on edge. Whether he decides to step down or continue leading the Church, the pope’s commitment to his mission remains unwavering.