[News 25]
◀ Anchor ▶
The hospital treatment for Pope Francis, who has been diagnosed with pneumonia, is being prolonged. The Vatican has stated that his health has improved, but there are various rumors circulating about what this means for the Pope’s future. Let’s connect to Berlin for more details.
Kim Min-chan, correspondent, how is the Pope’s health currently?
◀ Reporter ▶
Pope Francis, who was admitted on the 14th due to bronchitis, has not yet been discharged. However, the Vatican reported that his condition is improving and mentioned that he “slept well last night and is currently resting.” While he is receiving oxygen therapy, the concerning renal symptoms have been resolved, and no additional respiratory difficulties have appeared. It was also noted that the Pope is conscious and able to eat normally and walk lightly.
Nonetheless, it seems too early to be completely reassured. The Vatican had once used the term “serious” to describe his condition and stated that the prognosis should be observed cautiously.
◀ Anchor ▶
As the Pope’s hospital stay lengthens, speculation about his future continues to arise, and there are even talks about some ‘conspiracy theories.’ What are these about?
◀ Reporter ▶
Yes. In short, there are discussions that the Pope might resign. It started with a report by the New York Times. It was revealed that two Vatican clergy secretly visited the Pope’s hospital room. Initially, the Vatican denied the visit, later stating it was for cardinal meeting-related business. However, foreign news outlets have raised doubts about whether these two visitors were involved in the business the Vatican claimed. With references to former Pope Benedict XVI’s precedented resignation, it is leading to speculation that the Pope might be contemplating decisions about his position.
Conversely, Catholic officials dismissed the possibility of resignation as “nonsense,” suggesting that the rumors are a conspiracy to destabilize the Pope under the pretext of health issues.
Prayers from believers hoping for the Pope’s swift recovery continue to pour in. Thousands of believers have gathered in St. Peter’s Square, and prayers for his health are ongoing in his homeland, Argentina, as well as in Roman hospitals.
This has been a report from Berlin.
MBC News is always open to your reports.
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