Benedict, Francis, and the future of papal retirements
PillarcatholicJan 02, 2023
The Vatican stated on Wednesday that Pope Francis had undergone a three-hour abdominal hernia surgery without complications, with leading surgeon Dr. Sergio Alfieri adding that the 86-year-old pontiff was fine, awake, and joking.
Dr. Alfieri noted that intestinal scar tissue — which had caused a partial blockage and pain in recent months — was removed entirely, so the procedure was considerably longer than the standard hernia operation which usually takes 60 to 90 minutes.
Given the precedent of papal retirement established by Benedict XVI, it is feasible that Pope Francis could step down from his role due to ongoing health challenges. Though he has denied any intention to follow the path of his predecessor, Francis has previously alluded to having signed a letter that could trigger his medical resignation.
Pope Francis' physical health has undoubtedly declined with age, but he has demonstrated that he remains mentally fit to lead the Catholic Church. Under his moral guidance, the Holy See has pushed for greater liturgical uniformity and better representation among its high-ranked officials, all while fighting corruption. This mission of reform is not something Pope Francis should ever voluntarily step away from.
There's a 50% chance that the Catholic Church will elect a new Pope by June 2025, according to the Metaculus prediction community.