questions and a precedent

The suspense is intense in the church and until the Vatican : Will François resign? The decision returns to him entirely according to canon law, and everyone knows their strong temperament, their refusal of pressures and intrigue.

We can’t help but think of the 2013 previousone morning gray from February. Seven journalists only in the press room. The routine of an ordinary consistory. And suddenly, these words in Latin Benoît XVI: “A aware of the gravity of this act, in full freedom, I declare to renounce the ministry of bishop of Rome. The press room will be crowded a few hours later, the emotion to its roof among the cardinals.

Jorge Bergoglio, who did not hesitate to show himself in a rolling chair in his travelsstressed “that we governed with our heads and not with the legs”. In his hospital room, he continues to alternate work and rest. While interrogated, he had first said it left “the door open” to a possible resignation, welcoming the wisdom of Benoît XVI, he then corrected the shot by stressing that resigning should not become “a fashion”. It is “ad vitam” that we are elected pope, he hammered. Which corresponds to his voluntary temperament. He would also fear that two successive resignations create a precedent for his successors. However, the absence of his voice, while Holy Week is approaching, creates a big void and poses a problem for Catholics.

The 266th Poperecalling the end of the pontificate of John Paul II decreased by the disease, could consider a renunciation if he noted that he can no longer communicate by speech. In 2013, he had written a resignation letter in case, then given to the Secretary of State and remained secret.

Late Februaryhe announced without date a consistory bringing together the cardinals to approve several canonizations. The initiative intrigued: would it be an opportunity that he is sparing to announce a resignation … like Benoît XVI in 2013?