"Everyone is concerned": in the middle of Easter weekend, the health of Pope Francis questions

Louise Sallé, edited by Yanis Darras 08h09, 09 April 2023

On this Easter Sunday, only one question is on the minds of the faithful: how is Pope Francis? The pontiff is expected in St. Peter's Square, Rome, for the traditional urbi et orbi blessing. But his health is questionable, especially following a hospitalization last week and a noticeable absence during the Way of the Cross on Good Friday.

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Towards a resignation?

So, a question is whispered in the Vatican: should the pope resign? It is difficult to know if the idea is discussed within the entourage of the sovereign, as "communication in the Vatican, regardless of the pope, on the health of the latter, is always a minimum. And with Francis, have taken an additional layer of opacity, "explains to the microphone of Europe 1 Michel Kubler, priest in Rome.

"It is impossible, I think, to say clearly what was the severity or otherwise of last week's hospitalization. But everyone is concerned. He could still, whatever he says now, give up his office as his predecessor Benedict XVI did," he said.

A Pope Determined to Reform the Church

But this is not the first time that a pope has not celebrated Mass, even at Easter, adds the Frenchman. "In the Vatican, it is not at all surprising that, during great celebrations, the pope is not at the altar to say Mass from the top of the altar, but sits in his seat and presides over from the seat. And at that time, it was a cardinal that he delegated to the altar. But it is still the pope who presides and in particular the one who preaches, who gives the homily," notes Father Michel Kubler.

Still, Pope Francis seems determined to complete his reforms in the Church through the so-called Synod. A project that should be completed in the fall of 2024.