Pope Francis‘s health has taken a turn for the worse, fueling debate about the future of his leadership of the Catholic Church.
The 88-year-old pontiff, who leads the 1.4 billion Catholics worldwide, has been hospitalized since February 14, battling pneumonia.
According to Gianfranco Ravasi, former Vatican Minister of Culture, Pope Francis may consider resigning if his health worsens.
“There is no doubt that the Pope could decide to resign if he found himself in a situation in which his ability to have direct contact with people and to communicate in an immediate, incisive and decisive manner was compromised,” Ravasi said.
“Complex Clinical Situation”
The Vatican has reported that Pope Francis is alert and has shown slight improvement in recent blood tests. However, while his condition is stable it is also serious, with bilateral pneumonia causing some panic among Vatican officials.
Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni visited the Pope on Wednesday, describing him as “alert and responsive.” The Pope even joked with Meloni about some people betting on his death, revealing a sense of mental alertness, at least.
Yet, the Pontiff’s funeral is allegedly being rehearsed after he reportedly warned close associates he may not survive the sickness.
Despite his age and health woes, Francis has remained active, completing a four-nation trip in September. He has often downplayed concerns about his health, saying, “The Church is governed using the head and the heart, not the legs.“
The Pope has a history of health problems, including knee and back pain, which have reduced his mobility in recent years. He has undergone surgery twice, in 2021 and 2023, to address diverticulitis and a hernia.
A Conclave In A Movie
The Pope’s deteriorating health coincides with the release last year of a movie thriller, “Conclave” directed by Edward Berger. A Conclave is the process of electing a new Pope.
The film centres on Cardinal Thomas Lawrence, portrayed by Ralph Fiennes, who leads the College of Cardinals in a secretive papal conclave following the sudden death of the pope. As the cardinals convene to elect a new pontiff, Lawrence uncovers hidden secrets and scandals that could profoundly impact the Church’s future.
While the condition of Pope Francis has no links to the movie, the film’s portrayal of the papal election process has reignited public interest and discussions about the Vatican’s inner workings, especially in light of recent events.
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