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3mo ago

Pope Francis Hospitalized with Pneumonia, Sparking Succession Speculation

The 88-year-old pontiff's health struggles have reignited public and private discussions about the future of the papacy.

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A woman leaves a rosary at the feet of a statue of late Pope John Paul II, on Friday, outside Agostino Gemelli Polyclinic in Rome, Italy. Pope Francis spent his seventh day there, being treated for pneumonia.
Messages of well-wishes, drawings and cards received by the pope Francis from children in the pediatric oncology unit of 'Policlinico Gemelli' hospital on February 18, 2025, in Rome, Italy.
Catholics pray for Pope Francis at a church in Manila, Philippines on Thursday. Worshipers have congregated across the world to offer devotion for the 88-year-old pontiff's recovery.

Overview

  • Pope Francis, 88, is hospitalized at Rome’s Gemelli Hospital with pneumonia and a complex respiratory infection, with slight improvements reported in recent medical updates.
  • The Vatican has provided limited transparency on his condition, fueling rumors and speculation about his health and potential papal succession.
  • The release of a pre-recorded papal video for the Sanremo music festival initially raised concerns about its timing, though it was later confirmed to be recent.
  • Public interest in the papacy has been heightened by the Oscar-nominated film 'Conclave,' which explores the dramatic process of electing a new pope.
  • Conservative critics of Francis have amplified unfounded conspiracy theories about his health and the legitimacy of his 2013 election, adding to the ongoing debates.