The Pope Francis has been hospitalized since February 14 at Gemelli Hospital in Rome, and although his initial diagnosis was bronchitis, he was later diagnosed with bilateral pneumonia and a slight bilateral insufficiency. As of now, he remains delicate but stable. However, he has signed decrees and made appointments, indicating that he has continued working despite his condition.
According to Vatican Law, the Pope does not have a substitute in case of illness, not even if he becomes unconscious. He is only replaced if he resigns or passes away. Therefore, during his hospitalization, Francis has undertaken several tasks, such as signing off on the canonization of José Gregorio Hernández as the first saint of Venezuela; the agency Efe indicated that he approved the “heroic virtues” of the Spaniard Miguel Maura and Montaner, advancing his canonization, appointed five new bishops in Brazil and Canada, appointed two priests as secretaries general of the Vatican’s Governorship, and sent two messages for the Sunday Angelus prayers.
Pope Francis can only delegate some daily tasks
The agency AP explained that although Pope Francis, at 88 years old, cannot be replaced by anyone, he can delegate certain tasks to Vatican authorities. However, anything that requires appointments or law approvals must be signed or authorized by him.
The cited agency indicated that one of those who can be authorized by the pope for some tasks is Cardinal Pietro Parolin, Vatican Secretary of State, and the Venezuelan Edgar Peña, apostolic nuncio. The Vatican notified last Tuesday that both visited him on Monday in the hospital. According to Efe, it was the first visit they received from Vatican delegates.
AP reported this Thursday that fortunately, the pope has responded well to treatment and that the bilateral pneumonia has diminished. They mentioned that he had a peaceful night and that although he is weak, he remains in command.
“Only ways to replace the Pope”
The Pope Francis could only be replaced if he resigns or if he dies. As for the first option, it does not need to be accepted by anyone else and is at his sole discretion. In the event of death, it must be confirmed by the Head of the Vatican’s Health Department.
If the Pontiff passes away, he would be replaced by the cardinal camerlengo of the Holy Roman Church, the American Kevin Joseph Farrell, who will be the administrator of the Vatican until a new pope is elected.