Concern in the Vatican about the health of Pope Francis has been increasing. Following his recent episode in which he had difficulty breathing while reading his catechesis, generating uncertainty about his well-being, the headquarters of the Catholic Church has not yet issued any official statement regarding this.
Last December, the Pope avoided delivering his weekly catechesis due to respiratory issues and moved his activities to the chapel of his residence. During the recent audience at the Vatican, the Supreme Pontiff apologized and stated: "Now I apologize and ask the master to continue the reading due to difficulty in breathing," after which he delegated the reading to Priest Pierluigi Giroli.
At 88 years old and with 11 years of papacy, this is not the first time Francis has had to cede the reading to a collaborator due to health problems. During the Mass for the Jubilee of the Armed Forces on Sunday, he also paused in the middle of his homily, thus increasing concern in the Vatican about his physical condition.
Images from the latest audience show the Pope looking visibly unwell, which hindered his usual expression. Although Francis has never mentioned the possibility of abdication, they have been forced to adapt his movements and schedule due to his health condition, which is being carefully managed for the upcoming Christmas celebrations.
