Cardinal Secretary of State Pietro Parolin told the Italian daily Corriere della Sera that talk of a papal resignation is “useless speculations” and that he prefers “not to meddle” in the “uncontrolled rumors” and “inappropriate comments.” The debate is pointless, he added.
He also said he had not seen the 266th pope since his hospitalization, though he has only been back in Rome since Wednesday, after an official visit to Burkina Faso.
“I have let him know that I am available to meet with him if he deems it necessary, but so far this has not been the case.” And he added: ”Thank God the news from Gemelli is encouraging; he is recovering. Files have been sent to him, which means that things are going well.”
“In this regard,” the cardinal said, “it is better for him to remain protected and have as few visits as possible so that he can rest, allowing the treatment to be more effective."
As the Pope's hospitalization continues, debate on a possible resignation is rekindled. In an interview in the same newspaper on Thursday, Italian Cardinal Gianfranco Ravasi said that Francis could resign. “If he has serious difficulties in carrying out his service, he will make his choice. He will decide [...] himself, in conscience.”
Day 9
The Holy Father is on day 9 of his hospitalization, and at a press conference on February 21 (the first since he was admitted), doctors said they anticipated another week in hospital and a long convalescence.
Professor Sergio Aflieri, who leads the team of Gemelli caregivers dedicated to the Pope, assured the press that his hospital stay will last “at least the whole of next week.”
“Is he out of danger? No, he is not out of danger. But if you ask us, ‘Is he in danger of dying?’ The answer is ‘No’,” the professor also said.
Pope Francis will not lead the Sunday Angelus prayer publicly. As on last Sunday, the text of his meditation will be broadcast, the Holy See Press Office said on February 22, 2025.
“Pope Francis has rested well,” the Vatican said briefly this morning, without giving further details.
All papal audiences have been canceled since February 14, and the pope is not receiving visitors, except for his closest associates. However, Italian Prime Minister Giorgio Meloni came to wish him a speedy recovery on Wednesday.
