Pope Francis, the head of the Catholic Church, is celebrating 12 years in his role on Thursday. Despite a recent health scare, the 88-year-old pontiff is now out of danger and his condition is stable. As he continues to recover from pneumonia in both lungs, the question on everyone’s mind is what the future holds for the leader of the world’s nearly 1.4 billion Catholics.
The Pope’s hospitalization, which lasted for a month, has raised concerns about his ability to lead the Church. In the past, Francis has refused to slow down or make any concessions to his age and health. He has maintained a busy schedule, including frequent overseas trips and presiding over large open-air masses. However, experts believe that his recovery could take weeks due to his age and recurring health issues, compounded by the fact that he had part of one lung removed as a young man.
Father Michel Kubler, a Vatican expert and former editor in chief of the French religious newspaper La Croix, says that the rest of Francis’ pontificate is uncertain, even for the Pope himself. He explains, “He doesn’t know what his life will be like once he returns to the Vatican and so, no doubt, reserves the option of resigning if he can no longer cope.” This sentiment is echoed by many, as Francis has always left the door open to resigning if his health deteriorates, following in the footsteps of his predecessor, Benedict XVI.
During his hospitalization, Francis has delegated some of his duties to senior cardinals, but he has also continued to work on and off, signing decrees and meeting with close colleagues. However, he has missed a month of events for the 2025 Jubilee, a holy year organized by the Pope that is expected to draw an additional 30 million pilgrims to Rome and the Vatican. With Easter, the holiest period in the Christian calendar, less than six weeks away, it is unlikely that Francis will be well enough to lead a full program of events.
Many believe that the Pope’s recent health scare will lead to a change in his approach to leading the Church. Father Kubler states, “This is the end of the pontificate as we have known it, until now.” Since taking office, Francis has brought about sweeping reforms in the Vatican and beyond. He has eschewed the trappings of office and reached out to the most disadvantaged in society, emphasizing that the Church is for everyone. However, some of his reforms, such as reorganizing the Vatican’s finances and increasing the role of women, are still in the process of being implemented.
One major discussion that is yet to be concluded is the Synod, a wide-ranging discussion on the future of the Church. Francis’ predecessor, Benedict XVI, initiated this discussion, but it was Francis who has been leading it. The Synod has sparked intense debates, with traditionalists strongly resisting Francis’ approach. One such example is the recent outcry in Africa over the Vatican’s authorization of non-liturgical blessings for same-sex couples in 2023.
Despite the challenges and resistance, Francis has made significant progress in shifting the Church’s focus towards the marginalized and underrepresented. A Vatican source says, “Whether we like him or not, he has shifted the dial, but many things are still pending.” As the Pope continues to recover and resume his duties, it is clear that his work is far from over. His vision for a more inclusive and compassionate Church may still face obstacles, but his determination and dedication to this cause remain unwavering.
In conclusion, as Pope Francis marks 12 years as the head of the Catholic Church, his recent health scare has raised concerns about his ability to lead. However, his condition is now stable, and he is expected to make a full recovery. While the future may be uncertain, one thing is clear – Francis’ impact on the Church and the world is undeniable. His efforts to bring about meaningful reforms and promote inclusivity and compassion have made a lasting impact, and his work is far from over. As we celebrate his 12 years as Pope, let us also pray for his continued health and strength to lead the Church towards a brighter future.
