Pope Warns Confidants He May Not Survive Health Scare

THE NEWS

Pope Francis, 88, is in a perilous health situation after being hospitalized in Rome for severe bronchitis and a growing “polymicrobial infection.”

Despite his doctors’ orders forcing him to miss major appearances, the pontiff is rapidly finalizing appointments and reforms that reflect his progressive papacy.

Sources close to the Vatican say he fears this may be his final battle with illness. As the Catholic Church anxiously monitors Francis’ fragile condition, attention is turning toward the potential conclave that will select his successor and how his final decisions will shape the Church’s future.

TIMELINE

• 2013: Cardinal Jorge Mario Bergoglio becomes Pope Francis, quickly initiating a more inclusive tone in Catholic leadership.

• February 6, 2025: Francis controversially extends Cardinal Giovanni Battista Re’s role as dean of the College of Cardinals, influencing preparations for any future conclave.

• Early February 2025: Francis issues a sharp critique of U.S. Vice President JD Vance’s use of the concept “Ordo Amoris,” heightening tensions with the Trump administration.

• Mid-February 2025: Pope Francis moves up Sister Raffaella Petrini’s start date as Vatican City governor to March 1, an unprecedented appointment of a nun to the role.

• March 2025: The pope is hospitalized in Gemelli Hospital with severe bronchitis and a complex respiratory infection, prompting the cancellation of key public events.

REACTIONS

Pope Francis (Internal Circle): Privately conveys conviction that “he won’t make it this time,” highlighting his frailty and desire to secure his legacy.

Holy See Press Office: Provides limited updates on the pope’s condition, describing it as a “polymicrobial infection” with a “complex clinical picture.” Declines to comment on succession plans or recent personnel changes.

Vatican Officials: Suggest Francis wants to entrench his progressive reforms, appointing allies to top posts and solidifying his vision ahead of a possible conclave.

Conservative Critics: Oppose Francis’ liberal reforms, voicing concern that his final moves are meant to marginalize traditional Church factions.

International Observers: Note the pope’s recent rebuke of VP JD Vance’s theological justifications for immigration policy, cautioning that U.S. political forces could seek to influence a papal transition.

WHAT'S NEXT

Francis’ deteriorating health shines a spotlight on the looming conclave that could decide the next pope.

If the pope’s condition worsens, expect Vatican factions to intensify lobbying efforts in anticipation of a political and ideological battle over succession.

Regardless of when Francis leaves the papacy, his final days are poised to shape Catholic policy and governance for years to come.