Pope Francis has been hospitalised since 14 February for treatment of bronchitis, raising questions about the Vatican’s operations during his absence. The 88-year-old pontiff, who also battled double pneumonia and a ‘respiratory crisis’ at Rome’s Gemelli Hospital, remains under medical supervision, with doctors citing his ‘complex’ condition.
Who Runs the Vatican When the Pope is Unwell?
Despite his hospitalisation, Pope Francis has maintained some oversight of Vatican affairs. According to Matthew Bunson, vice president of EWTN News, the Pope has been meeting with his secretaries at Gemelli Hospital, ensuring continued governance from his hospital bed.
‘He’s clearly still in touch with the Vatican and is still making decisions,’ Bunson noted, highlighting the resilience of the Vatican’s administration even in the Pope’s absence.
Andreas Widmer, a former Swiss Guard under Pope John Paul II, echoed this sentiment, explaining that much of the Vatican’s administration continues seamlessly. ‘Things keep going. He is kept appraised by [Vatican officials],’ Widmer said.
The Interregnum Scenario
If the Pope’s condition were to deteriorate, the Vatican would enter an ‘interregnum’—the transitional period between popes. During this time, the camerlengo of the Holy Roman Church steps in to oversee the Vatican’s administration. This official is responsible for certifying the Pope’s death (if it occurs) and ensuring a smooth transition towards electing a new pontiff.
Other roles that remain active include the head of the Apostolic Penitentiary, who oversees the forgiveness of sins, and the almoner of his holiness, in charge of papal charity and care for the poor.
Preparation and Rumours
While preparations for worst-case scenarios are a part of Vatican protocol, Widmer dismissed rumours of the Swiss Guards ‘rehearsing’ for the Pope’s funeral. He labelled such reports as ‘complete garbage,’ emphasising that the Swiss Guard is always prepared for such duties as part of their regular responsibilities.
The Pope’s Own Contingency Plans
Pope Francis had previously prepared for potential incapacity by signing his resignation in 2013 and handing it to then-Secretary of State Cardinal Tarcisio Bertone. However, the Pope has since expressed a preference to remain in office unless physically incapacitated.
For now, the Roman Curia continues to function normally, with the world watching closely as Pope Francis recovers. The Vatican’s robust systems ensure continuity, demonstrating that the spiritual and administrative heart of the Catholic Church is well-prepared for any eventuality.
(Disclaimer: Based on an article by Daniel Payne for Catholic News Agency)
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