Pope Francis Said He Might Step Down Although Not Now

Pope Francis Said He Might Step Down Although Not Now

Pope Francis said a time may come when he might consider stepping down due to health challenges should it hinder him from serving in his capacity as pope in any way.

The Pontiff made the statement at the end of his recent trip to Canada where he apologized to the indigenous people.

He also said at the moment, he will continue with his duties and remain guided by God on the way forward, whether to step down or not.

The 85-year-old pontiff who was seen recently praying and blessing a lake in Canada while seated in a wheelchair has been going on extensive travel which involves spending long days away from Rome.

He spoke to journalists from his wheelchair while en route to Rome from Canada, “It is not a catastrophe to change Pope, it is not a taboo,” he told journalists from a wheelchair on the plane from Canada’s Arctic territory to Rome.

“The door [to retiring] is open – it is a normal option. But until today I have not knocked on that door. I have not felt the need to think about this possibility – that is not to say that in two days’ time I might not start thinking about it.”

Over recent months Pope Francis has suffered ongoing knee trouble that has impacted his mobility. He spent much of his visit to Canada in a wheelchair.

But he has previously dismissed speculation about more serious, life-threatening illnesses.