Pope Francis addresses abdication rumors amid new book release

Every so often, the topic of Pope Francis's potential abdication comes up. Meanwhile, "Fakt" notes that a widely discussed book has just been released in Italy, in which the Holy Father, among other things, recalls his predecessor. He also disclosed whether he is considering resignation.

Benedict XVI made a significant mark in the history of the church. And not just because he became the pope. He was the first Holy Father to step down from office since Gregory XII. His abdication caused great turmoil, around which many conspiracy theories have arisen.

In an interview for "La Repubblica," Pope Benedict XVI admitted that he was afraid he would not be able to fulfil "many obligations" well.

My decision to resign from further service was due to the awareness that I would not be able to undertake the difficult pilgrimage to Rio de Janeiro for World Youth Day - he added.

For years, speculations have been rife about Pope Francis's possible abdication. Meanwhile, a book titled "Il successore. I miei ricordi di Benedetto XVI" (The Successor. My Memories of Benedict XVI) has been published in Italy. It is a record of conversations between Pope Francis and Spanish journalist Javier Martinez-Brocal, which took place between July 2023 and January 2024.

Pope Francis has not ruled out the possibility of abdication. His words undoubtedly give pause for thought.

Now those doors are open. It is an option that has always existed, but Benedict made it concrete. Some ask me if I also intend to resign. It's a real possibility, but for now, I don't feel the need - he noted, as quoted by "Fakt".