Pope Francis Reveals 2013 Resignation Letter Amid Health Concerns

Pope Francis Reveals 2013 Resignation Letter Amid Health Concerns

Pope Francis disclosed that he signed a letter of resignation in 2013, intended for use if he were to be incapacitated due to health issues. This revelation emerged during an interview in 2022, where he stated, ‘I have already signed my resignation. Tarcisio Bertone was Secretary of State. I signed it and I told him: ‘In case of impediment for medical reasons or whatever, here is my resignation.’

The resurfacing of this interview comes at a critical time for the Pope, who has been hospitalized for more than a week. Reports indicate that he experienced a severe asthmatic respiratory crisis on Saturday, as reported by the Associated Press.

During his hospitalization, the Vatican confirmed that the Pope had a peaceful night after his recent health crisis.

Health Challenges and Hospitalization

In addition to the respiratory issues, Francis required blood transfusions after medical tests revealed a low platelet count, according to information from Reuters. This series of health challenges has raised ongoing concerns about his ability to fulfill his papal duties, particularly as he approaches the age of 88.

Historical Context of Papal Resignation

The prospect of a Pope resigning due to health problems was largely unthinkable prior to 2013. This changed dramatically when Pope Benedict XVI resigned, marking the first papal resignation in over 600 years. Pope Francis’s disclosure has sparked discussions on potential future scenarios regarding the papacy and health-related limitations.

Details from the 2022 Interview

During the 2022 interview, Pope Francis indicated that he entrusted his resignation letter to Cardinal Tarcisio Bertone, then Secretary of State, roughly six months after he began his papacy in March 2013. Francis noted, ‘You have it. I don’t know to whom Cardinal Bertone may have given it, but I gave it to him when he was secretary of state.’

Continuing Spiritual Messages

As he remains hospitalized in Rome, Pope Francis shared a heartfelt message of gratitude to those who have sent him prayers and messages of support during this difficult time. On social media platform X, he expressed, ‘I have recently received many messages of affection, and I have been particularly struck by the letters and drawings from children. Thank you for your closeness, and for the consoling prayers I have received from all over the world.’

An Encouragement to Followers

In another post, he encouraged his followers to continue pursuing their missions with joy, stating, ‘I urge you to continue your apostolate with joy and to be a sign of a love that embraces everyone, as the #GospelOfTheDay suggests. May we transform evil into goodness and build a fraternal world. Do not be afraid to take risks for love!’

Looking Ahead

The Pope’s health remains a focal point for both his supporters and the wider Catholic community. As he navigates these health concerns, the discussions surrounding the implications of his resignation letter continue to gain traction. The public’s interest is piqued not only by his current condition but also by what may lie ahead for the papacy and the Catholic Church as a whole.

Pope Francis continues to inspire many with his commitment to service despite health challenges. His messages underscore the strength of community and prayer, which resonate deeply within the global Catholic community.