The Vatican announced on Saturday that Pope Francis’s condition has taken a critical turn. Suffering from a severe asthmatic respiratory crisis, the Pope now requires high flows of oxygen to manage his condition. Despite being alert, he is experiencing more pain than before, and his prognosis is currently reserved.
His personal physician, Dr. Luigi Carbone, has cautioned that the Pope is still in danger despite initial reports of improvement. Dr. Carbone emphasized the fragility of the Pope’s health, stating that even a slight imbalance could have serious consequences.
Speculation is rife about the Pope’s future, with some suggesting that even if he recovers, he may need to resign due to his declining health. Cardinal Gianfranco Ravasi, the Vatican department chief of cultural affairs, believes that the Pope may consider resignation if his ability to communicate directly and decisively is compromised.
In the event of the Pope’s passing, the Vatican will enter a period of mourning. The Camerlengo will confirm his death by tapping the Pope’s head with a silver hammer and calling his name three times. The Papal Apartments will be sealed, and funeral arrangements will commence within nine days. The College of Cardinals will then gather for a conclave to elect a new Pope, with white smoke signaling the appointment of the next leader of the Catholic Church.
