Pope's 'feeling' about short papacy fuels speculation
On several occasions, Pope Francis has indicated to reporters he has “a feeling” his papacy may be short, ending either with his death or by following in Pope Benedict’s rare footsteps with retirement.
Last August, then 77 years old, he discussed the subject with reporters on a return flight to the Vatican from South Korea, as the Guardian of London reported.
“I see it as the generosity of the people of God,” he replied when asked to explain his global popularity. “I try to think of my sins, my mistakes and not to be proud. Because I know it will last only a short time. Two or three years, and then I’ll be off to the Father’s house.”
In a March interview with the Mexican TV broadcaster Televisa he again said he thought his papacy would be short....
Dr. Alan Cairns | 8/3/2009
