Pope Francis at the ceremony for the nomination of 21 new cardinals on Saturday he introduced himself with a large dark bruise on his chin: a Vatican spokesman later said he was found hitting a bedside table with his chin on Friday morning. The bruise was still very visible on Sunday morning, during the commemoration of the Feast of the Immaculate Conception.
pope Francis arrives at the Marian monument of the Column of the Immaculate Conception in central Rome on Sunday (AP/Gregorio Borgia)
Along with the fact that it is difficult not to notice it, especially on a Pope, we are talking about the bruise becuase Pope Francis is about to reach 88 and those who look at him have described him with long day rather tired. He already had various health problems in the past: in June 2023 he underwent an operation for an intestinal obstruction, in 2021 he underwent a colon surgery and for fifty years he lives without a large part of his right lung, lost as a result of an infection that occurred when he was young. He has also had pain in his right knee for some time, which forces him to use a wheelchair for most of his trips.
For all these reasons,we have been wondering for a long time whether he could decide to step down from his role – as his predecessor,Pope Benedict XVI,did before – without waiting for death.In that case, the 21 newly appointed cardinals could participate in the conclave, the assembly that meets to choose the new Pope, as long as they are under 80 years of age.
What are the potential challenges Pope Francis may face as he continues his papacy at 88 years old?
Interview wiht Vatican Affairs Expert on Pope Francis and His Future as He Approaches 88
Q: Thank you for joining us today.Let’s start with the recent event when Pope Francis appeared with a noticeable bruise on his chin. Can you elaborate on the situation surrounding the bruise and its implications for the pope’s health?
Expert: Absolutely. The bruise was visible during the ceremony for the nomination of 21 new cardinals, and it raised immediate concerns.Vatican spokesman confirmed that Pope Francis accidentally hit his chin on a bedside table.This incident, while seemingly trivial, highlights the Pope’s overall health challenges, especially as he approaches 88 years old. The fatigue visible during the ceremonies suggests that his health continues to be a concern for many observers.
Q: Speaking of health, Pope Francis has faced several serious health issues in the past few years. Can you provide an overview of his medical history and how it affects his papacy?
Expert: Certainly. Pope Francis has undergone notable health challenges, including surgery for an intestinal obstruction in June 2023 and a colon operation in 2021. Additionally, he has lived for over fifty years without part of his right lung due to a past infection. Currently, he experiences persistent knee pain that frequently enough requires him to use a wheelchair, which affects his mobility and public appearances. These factors not only influence his daily routine but also raise questions about his ability to fulfill the demands of the papacy long-term.
Q: Given Pope Francis’ age and health issues, there is speculation regarding his potential resignation. Can you discuss how this situation compares to his predecessor, Pope Benedict XVI?
Expert: Certainly. The potential for resignation is a topic of considerable discussion, especially considering the precedent set by Pope Benedict XVI. Resigning instead of waiting for death allows for a smoother transition and ensures that the papacy can continue with a leader who is fit for the role. If Pope Francis were to step down,the newly appointed cardinals—who are under 80—would play a crucial role in the conclave to elect a new Pope. This coudl impact the future direction of the church, making it vital to observe closely.
Q: What implications would a resignation have on the Catholic Church and the newly appointed cardinals?
Expert: A resignation from Pope Francis would send ripples through the Catholic Church. It could signal a shift in leadership style and priorities, especially as the new cardinals come from diverse backgrounds and perspectives. These 21 new cardinals are now eligible to shape the Church’s future during the conclave. Depending on whose vision they align with, we could see significant changes in how the Church addresses contemporary issues such as social justice, climate change, and interfaith dialog.
Q: For our readers, what practical advice would you give concerning the ongoing health of Pope Francis and the potential for leadership changes in the Vatican?
Expert: Readers should stay informed about the key developments in the Vatican, as Pope Francis’ health will remain a critical issue. As his situation evolves, understanding the dynamics among the cardinals is essential. engaging in discussions about the future leadership of the Catholic Church can also help one appreciate the complexities involved. Moreover, it’s essential to recognize that the Church may eventually broaden its outlook, especially if younger, more progressive cardinals influence the direction of future initiatives.
Q: Thank you for sharing yoru insights. is there anything else you would like to add about the importance of this moment in the Catholic Church?
Expert: Thank you for having me. This is indeed a significant moment. The intersection of health, age, and leadership will shape not just the papacy, but also the role of the Catholic Church in our changing world. It’s a time for reflection on what comes next for this venerable institution and its leaders. As events unfold, I encourage everyone to closely follow developments, engage in discussions, and reflect on the broader implications for faith communities globally.