Bob will take it easy because of health: ‘It’s time to think about stepping down’

Pope Francis wants to slow down due to his health problems. The 85-year-old church leader shared this on his way back from his own trip to Canada. He said it was time to “consider the possibility of stepping down”.

The Pope mentioned his trip to Canada, where he was impressed… Apologies to the citizens, ‘a challenge’. Pope has been dealing with knee issues for some time since he injured the ligaments of his right knee earlier this year. At the beginning of this month, the church leader had to cancel a visit to Africa due to the laser and magnet therapy he had to undergo.

On his way back from Canada, the Pope said: “I think at my age with these limitations I need to conserve my energy to continue serving the Church. It is also time to consider the possibility of resigning.” He hasn’t resigned yet, Francis reassured reporters, but “the door is open.” According to him, there is nothing wrong with the Pope’s resignation. “This is not strange. It is not a disaster. You can change the pope,” said the church leader himself.

In 2013, his predecessor, Benedict XVI, became the first Pope ever to resign due to health issues, both mental and physical. Francis has often shared that he doesn’t think this was an unwise decision and that his health could deteriorate rapidly, and he sees it right.

The Pope can no longer walk the streets without a stick or a wheelchair. © Reuters

pain when standing

The Pope may have admired Canada, but it has clearly been an arduous journey for the 85-year-old. For example, he had to be moved in a wheelchair, and he needed a walking stick for support. It was also clear that the Pope was in pain from getting up from the chairs. No surgery can be performed at the moment, according to Francis himself. He still had abdominal surgery in July 2021, which required the removal of 33cm of his colon.

For now, things seem to be going well in Vatican City – the pope seemed just as energetic on day six as on day one in Canada – but how long that will last is uncertain. “I try to travel as much as possible and be as close to people, because I think this is the best way to do my job as Papa. I can’t say more than that.”