As the Catholic world watches with concern, Pope Francis remains in the hospital, recovering from a prolonged bout of bronchitis. Matteo Bruni, Director of the Holy See Press Office, provided an update Feb. 18, assuring journalists that “the night passed peacefully.” Bruni further stated “The Pope rested, woke up this morning, had breakfast and spent some time reading newspapers, as he regularly does.” While no immediate medical updates were available, Bruni indicated that further information would be provided later in the evening.
The Pope’s hospitalization since Friday, Feb. 14, has sparked speculation and concern among Catholics worldwide. The Vatican confirmed that the Holy Father has not had a fever and continues to follow his prescribed therapy. However, the severity of his illness has led to significant adjustments to his schedule.
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Earlier Tuesday, the Vatican announced that Pope Francis would not preside over the Mass for the Jubilee of Deacons scheduled for Sunday, Feb. 23. This development, coupled with his ongoing health struggles, has fueled discussions about the future of his papacy and the church itself.
Beyond medical concerns, a more mysterious narrative has emerged: the ancient prophecies of St. Malachy. These cryptic predictions, which claim to outline a succession of 112 popes, have long been a source of speculation within Catholic circles.
Widely considered a 16th-century forgery designed to influence papal elections, the final entry on the list remains a haunting enigma. It describes a figure known as Petrus Romanus (Peter the Roman), under whom “the city of seven hills will be destroyed, and the dreadful judge will judge his people.” Many prophecy enthusiasts believe this marks the final pope before the end times.
With Pope Francis often considered number 112 on the list, speculation has intensified. If he were to step down or pass away, attention would inevitably turn to his potential successor.
One intriguing figure in this discussion is Cardinal Pietro Parolin, the Vatican Secretary of State. Born in Italy and holding one of the most powerful positions within the Holy See, his name—Pietro, which translates to Peter in English—only adds fuel to the prophetic fire. If he were to ascend to the papacy, some would see it as the fulfillment of the Peter the Roman prophecy, ushering in an era of great tribulation.
Of course, the Catholic Church has dismissed these prophecies as non-canonical and unreliable, and history has shown that predictions of imminent doom are often exaggerated.
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James Lasher is staff writer for Charisma Media.
