Date of Next Election of Catholic Pope
MetaculusMAR 26 2022
Pope Francis in 'Stable' Condition, No New Medical Crises Reported
Above: Candles are lit at the statue of John Paul II outside the Gemelli University Hospital where Pope Francis is hospitalized with pneumonia, in Rome on March 4, 2025. Image copyright: Filippo Monteforte/Contributor/AFP via Getty Images
The Spin
Narrative A
Pope Francis has been active even during his longest-ever hospitalization — a sign that he has no intention to resign as long as he feels able to govern the Catholic Church despite concerns and rumors over his health and future as pontiff. Papal resignations should never become the norm.
Narrative B
As his health is in clear decline, Pope Francis should consider following the precedent of papal retirement established by Benedict XVI and step down from his role. It's certain that he has denied any intention to follow that path, but, at the same time, Francis has signed a letter that could trigger his resignation due to medical reasons.