If the spiritual leader of Catholics, Pope Francis, resigns due to health issues or passes away one day, selecting a new pope will become the most crucial problem for the Vatican. Speculations about the future of the papacy are on the rise, reigniting debates about possible successors. Cardinals gathered in the Sistine Chapel will convene to determine who the next pope will be. Whether a new pope has been elected is announced by the smoke coming out of the chimney of the Sistine Chapel, a tradition that has been upheld for 600 years. Black smoke signifies that a pope has not been chosen, while white smoke means one has.
Pope Francis, the spiritual leader of Catholics, is battling a worsening respiratory infection described by the Vatican as a “complex clinical picture.”
The 88-year-old Pope was admitted to Gemelli Hospital after a week-long bronchitis battle requiring additional medical intervention.
Vatican spokesman Matteo Bruni confirmed that Francis is in a condition necessitating changes in his medication regimen. The Pope is struggling with a severe respiratory infection that required hospitalization.
Doctors at Gemelli Hospital in Rome are overseeing his treatment, adjusting the treatment plan to address complications.
Despite facing multiple health issues in the past, including chronic knee pain, sciatica, and past surgeries, Pope Francis has remained active in his papal duties until his recent health concerns.
Born on December 17, 1936, Pope Francis is 88 years old and holds the title of the oldest living pope in recent history, with ongoing health issues being a contributing factor.
Pope Francis, despite his advancing age, has remained actively engaged in papal duties until his recent health problems.
Pope Leo XIII holds the record for being the oldest pope in office, serving as the head of the Catholic Church from February 1878 until his death at the age of 93 in July 1903. Pope Francis was elected as the leader of the Catholic Church on March 13, 2013, following Pope Benedict XVI’s resignation.
His papacy has been marked by efforts to modernize the church, address social justice issues, and promote interreligious dialogue. If Pope Francis is unable to continue his leadership due to health issues, the selection of a new pope will follow the traditional council process.
Cardinals from all around the world will gather in the Vatican City to cast their votes in the Sistine Chapel. The announcement of whether a new Pope has been elected is made by the smoke coming out of the chimney of the Sistine Chapel, a tradition that has been upheld for 600 years. Black smoke signifies that a Pope has not been selected, while white smoke means one has.
While no clear successor has been identified yet, several prominent cardinals like Cardinal Pietro Parolin, Cardinal Luis Antonio Tagle, and Cardinal Robert Sarah are speculated to be potential candidates. The decision will ultimately be made by the College of Cardinals.