Cardinal Parolin dismisses Pope Francis' resignation rumours
Cardinal Pietro Parolin has firmly ruled out the possibility of Pope Francis resigning, despite his extended hospital stay of over a month. He emphasized the importance of relying on medical bulletins as the most accurate source of information regarding the pope’s health.
- Pope Francis has been in hospital for over a month due to bilateral pneumonia, but his health is improving.
- Cardinal Pietro Parolin ruled out the possibility of the pope resigning. "Absolutely not," was his response when journalists inquired if the pope might step down.
- The Vatican Secretary of State visited the pope in hospital, noting an improvement in his health.
Will Pope Francis step down?
Cardinal Pietro Parolin, Secretary of State of the Holy See, categorically ruled out the possibility of Pope Francis resigning. In an interview with journalists, he said, "Absolutely not," responding to the question about the pope possibly stepping down.
Cardinal Parolin stressed the need to trust medical bulletins, emphasizing that they provide the most accurate information about the pope’s condition.
After visiting Pope Francis at the Gemelli Polyclinic, Cardinal Parolin noted an improvement in his health. He mentioned seeing the pope last week but had no further opportunities since then. While he observed that the pope appeared to be in better condition than before, he acknowledged that this was merely an external assessment.
He was accompanied during the visits by Archbishop Edgar Pena Parra.
What are the forecasts regarding the pope's health?
According to the latest information, Pope Francis' health is slightly improving. The dosages of oxygen being administered to him are being reduced, which is part of the treatment for bilateral pneumonia. Respiratory and motor physiotherapy has been helpful, as stated in the communication.
Despite the stable condition, it is unclear how long he will remain in hospital. Medical bulletins are now announced every few days, rather than daily, as when the Holy Father's condition was very concerning.
