Pope Francis Health Scare Causes Cancelation, Fuels Resignation Rumors

Pope Francis, beloved leader of the Catholic Church, just canceled a big trip and it’s sparking rumors of resignation. He was scheduled to go to Africa from July 2-7. The cancelation comes after several other health events and a recent decision to appoint new cardinals on August 27.

Reuters reports that Pope Francis publicly addressed a group of thousands at Saint Peter’s Square. The Pope said he was very sorry and that he needed to nurture his knee as he’s been having severe walking problems. He’s been seen confined to a wheelchair on numerous occasions since May after he strained multiple knee ligaments.

“I feel great regret that I had to postpone this trip, which I am still very keen to make. I ask you to pardon me for this. Let us pray together that with the help of God and with medical treatment, I can come to you as soon as possible. We are hopeful,” said Pope Francis.

Pope Francis Is Undergoing Knee Therapy

The Vatican says that the Pope needs to undergo extensive knee therapy and that the Africa trip would have jeopardized his health.

The Pope also underwent colon surgery last year and was hospitalized for ten days. His large intestine was narrowing, and he needed a section removed. Additionally, he suffers from sciatica, which can cause pain in the hips, legs, and back.

Pope Francis is 85 years-old, and with his health problems and cancelations, many are assuming it’s because he wants to retire. He’d be only the second Pope to retire in the history of the papacy, the other being Pope Gregory XII back in 1415.

It’s been mentioned that the August 27 consistory to appoint nearly two dozen new cardinals is further evidence of a looming retirement. Of the 21, 16 are younger than 80, making them of voting age in a potential conclave to appoint a successor to Pope Francis.

“Rather Than Operate, I’ll Resign”

TMZ notes that Pope Francis told his bishops last month that “Rather than operate, I’ll resign.”

No official announcement has been made about a resignation at this point. And considering Pope Francis’s outstanding approval ratings among Catholics, it’s hard to say that anyone wants him to resign. We’re just speculating.