VATICAN CITY. Pope Francis has firmly stated that he has no intention of resigning and assures that he is not facing any health issues that would necessitate such a step. In a forthcoming memoir titled “Life: My Story Through History,” due for publication on Tuesday, coinciding with the 11th anniversary of his papal inauguration, the 87-year-old pontiff reveals his determination to see through his “many projects.”
In excerpts published by the Italian daily Corriere della Sera on Thursday, Francis, alongside Italian journalist Fabio Marchese Ragona, reflects on pivotal moments of his life intertwined with global events such as World War II, Argentina’s military dictatorship, and internal affairs within the Vatican. These experiences, he explains, have shaped his perspectives and priorities during his papacy.
Addressing concerns about his health and critiques from conservative factions, Pope Francis acknowledges the speculation surrounding the continuity of his pontificate. Such discussions have been amplified since the unprecedented retirement of Pope Benedict XVI in 2013.
Despite grappling with bouts of bronchitis, flu, and other ailments during the winter, as well as undergoing surgeries, Pope Francis maintains that resignation is not on his agenda. He underscores the permanence of the papal role while acknowledging the existence of a letter of resignation in the Vatican’s Secretariat of State, to be activated only in the event of a severe physical impediment.
Expressing gratitude for his current state of health, Pope Francis dismisses any notion of imminent resignation, affirming his commitment to his duties. He confronts criticisms head-on, acknowledging resistance to his reform agenda within the Vatican, particularly from those resistant to change.
In the memoir, he reiterates recent decisions, including permitting Catholic priests to bless same-sex couples, defending his actions as rooted in love and inclusivity. While acknowledging dissent among conservative quarters, he maintains that such differences do not undermine the Church’s doctrine.
Affirming his stance on civil unions while upholding the sanctity of traditional marriage, Pope Francis emphasizes the importance of embracing marginalized communities, including LGBTQ+ individuals, within the Church’s fold.
With his memoir poised to be released, Pope Francis’s reflections offer insight into his unwavering resolve amid challenges, both within and outside the Vatican, as he continues to navigate the complexities of his papacy.
Paraluman P. Funtanilla
Paraluman P. Funtanilla is Tutubi News Magazine's Marketing Specialist and is a Contributing Editor. She finished her degree in Communication Arts in De La Salle Lipa. She has worked as a Digital Marketer for start-up businesses and small business spaces for the past two years. She has earned certificates from Coursera on Brand Management: Aligning Business Brand and Behavior and Viral Marketing and How to Craft Contagious Content. She also worked with Asia Express Romania TV Show.
