The pontiff was hospitalized with pneumonia last week.
Pope Francis could resign as the head of the Roman Catholic Church if his health deteriorates further, the former head of the Vaticanβs department of cultural affairs warned on Thursday. Cardinal Gianfranco Ravasi said the pontiff would not want to remain in his post if health issues prevented him from having βdirect contactβwith people.
Pope Francis was hospitalized last Friday with severe breathing difficulties after a lengthy bout of bronchitis. According to Vatican officials, the 88-year-old has developed pneumonia in both lungs. He is also being treated for a respiratory tract infection.
βI think he could [resign] because he is a person who, from this point of view, is quite decisive in his choices,βRavasi stated in an interview with Italian radio network RTL. He noted that while the pontiff is known for his tendency to βfight,β and has handled many βdemandingβ trips despite having to use a wheelchair, he may choose to step down if his ability to communicate with his congregation was compromised.
BREAKING: Pope Francis is reportedly considering resigning due to health issues. pic.twitter.com/tTXgv6i1kW
— The General (@GeneralMCNews) February 21, 2025
