Pope Francis' Health Raises Questions About Papal End-of-Life Protocols

As Pope Francis recovers from a prolonged hospital stay, debates emerge over the Vatican's lack of clarity on end-of-life decisions for a sitting pope.

Pope Francis, 88, has been hospitalized for over two weeks with severe bronchitis and double pneumonia, but recent updates indicate slow and steady improvement in his condition.
The Vatican reports that the pope is stable, resting, and has resumed some activities, including prayer, while remaining under medical supervision at Gemelli Hospital.
Catholic Church doctrine permits the cessation of extraordinary medical measures at the end of life, but ambiguity in defining such measures has sparked calls for clearer protocols, especially for popes.
Historian Austen Ivereigh asserts that Pope Francis views the papacy as a lifelong mission, dismissing speculation of resignation despite his health challenges.
The lack of transparency and formal guidance on papal end-of-life decisions has fueled concerns about potential conflicts within the Vatican and broader Church community.