Cardinal Pietro Parolin, the Vatican Secretary of State, has firmly denied reports suggesting that he and Pope Francis discussed the possibility of the Pope’s resignation during his three recent visits to the pontiff at Rome’s Gemelli Hospital.
The cardinal made these comments while addressing reporters at the “Iftar: Ramadan Table” event held at the St. Regis Hotel in Rome on March 17, 2025.
When asked by the media about the rumors surrounding the Pope’s health and potential resignation, Parolin immediately responded, “No, no, not at all.”
He emphasized that there were no such discussions between him and the 88-year-old Pope during his visits.
Pope’s Health and Ability to Lead the Church
During the event, Cardinal Parolin also spoke about Pope Francis’ health and his ongoing ability to lead the Catholic Church.
The cardinal stressed that the only reliable source of information regarding the Pope’s health should be the official medical reports, as these offer the most accurate and up-to-date details about his condition.
“I think we should go by the medical reports because they’re the ones that tell us exactly what the pope’s condition is,” Parolin explained.
A Positive Update on the Pope’s Health
Cardinal Parolin shared a more hopeful update on Pope Francis’ health following his most recent visit to the hospital on March 9, 2025.
According to the cardinal, the Pope appeared to be in better condition compared to the first time he visited him in the hospital.
“I saw him a week ago, and I found him better than the first time,” Parolin said.
He clarified, however, that this observation was his personal assessment, and he emphasized the importance of relying on the official medical reports for accurate information.
The Pope’s Role in Church Governance
Despite Pope Francis’ delicate health, Cardinal Parolin also addressed questions about the governance of the Catholic Church during this challenging time.
He noted that while the Pope’s health has limited the depth of their discussions, decisions are still being made.
Parolin explained that even though their conversations at the hospital were brief, the Pope continued to be involved in decision-making.
“The pope gives his instructions,” Parolin said, underscoring that the Holy Father’s leadership remains active, even as he recovers.