The Pope is in hospital and the Vatican is reflecting Cardinals and canon lawyers are considering possible scenarios
By Ludwig Ring-Eifel (KNA)
"When the Pope is dead, a new one is made," says the ever-pragmatic Roman vernacular. But the standard procedure that has been in place for centuries does not seem to be guaranteed at the end of Francis' pontificate.
Rome (KNA) In view of Pope Francis' long hospitalisation, several scenarios for the near future at the head of the Church are currently being discussed around the Vatican. An overview:
The Pope dies. This would be the best-case scenario: the Pope dies, his death is legally recognised and the vacancy of the see is declared. The pontiff is solemnly laid to rest and the worldwide College of Cardinals is convened. Two weeks later, the conclave begins. All of this is precisely regulated; the last three popes have changed some of the regulations once again, you just have to abide by them.
The pope himself declares his resignation. This second option for the vacancy is also clearly regulated: When the pope announces his resignation, everything runs according to the same plan as on death from the date he has set - but without a funeral and funeral masses. However, there is a slight uncertainty regarding the external framework of the announcement. Since Gregory XII in 1415 and Benedict XVI in 2013 announced their respective resignations to the cardinals gathered there as part of a "consistory", this has been considered the royal road for such a step.
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