Pope Francis' Health and Recent Developments in the Vatican

February 18, 2025 - ROME, ITALY - The recent health challenges faced by Pope Francis have raised significant concerns within the Catholic Church and the global community. The 88-year-old pontiff, who was hospitalized due to a respiratory tract infection, is reportedly in substantial pain. According to sources cited by Politico, Pope Francis has privately expressed his belief that he may not survive this illness, prompting him to address unfinished matters within the Church.

One of the notable actions taken by Pope Francis amid his health crisis was the extension of the term of the dean of the College of Cardinals, 91-year-old Italian Cardinal Giovanni Battista Re. This decision was announced on February 6, just hours before the Vatican confirmed that Pope Francis was suffering from bronchitis once again. The dean plays a crucial role in the Catholic Church, especially when a pope passes away, as he is responsible for delivering funeral rites, preparing for the papal conclave, and convening cardinals to discuss the qualities desired in the next pope.

The extension of the dean's term came at a time when top cardinals were expected to elect a new dean, following the end of Re's five-year term on January 18. Some media outlets speculated that Pope Francis' move was intended to prevent the subdean, Argentine Cardinal Leonardo Sandri, from ascending to the dean's position. A source from Politico mentioned that Pope Francis humorously remarked that Cardinal Re would be "kinder" to him and uphold his legacy of promoting a more inclusive Catholic Church.

In line with his vision of inclusion, Pope Francis made a historic appointment on the same day as the dean's term extension. Sister Raffaella Petrini was named the first woman governor of Vatican City, marking a significant milestone in the Church's history. This appointment reflects Pope Francis' commitment to increasing the role of women within the Vatican and the broader Church community.

Pope Francis, born Jorge Mario Bergoglio in Buenos Aires, Argentina, became the 266th Roman Pontiff of the Catholic Church on March 13, 2013, following his election by the conclave of cardinals. As the leader of an estimated 1.2 billion Roman Catholics worldwide, Pope Francis has maintained an intense schedule. His responsibilities include overseeing the Vatican City State, engaging in apostolic visits, holding private audiences with global leaders, and publishing new documents on issues affecting the Church and its followers.

The recent developments concerning Pope Francis' health and his proactive measures to address key Church matters demonstrate his unwavering dedication to his role, even in the face of personal health challenges. His actions continue to shape the future of the Catholic Church, emphasizing inclusivity and the importance of leadership stability during times of uncertainty.