Pope Francis dismissed rumors that he may be getting ready to step down, calling it “court gossip” in an interview that was released on Monday.
After weeks of rumors, Francis informed the Reuters news agency, “It never crossed my mind.”
When asked if he might follow in the footsteps of his predecessor Benedict XVI, who became the first pope to step down since the Middle Ages, the Argentine responded, “for the moment, no. For the moment, no. Really!
However, he reiterated his frequently-stated position that he might step down at some point if poor health made it difficult for him to lead the Church in the interview, which took place Saturday at the Vatican.
The 85-year-old responded, “We don’t know. God will say.” when asked when that might be. God will decide.
The “small fracture” in Francis’ knee, which was repaired with laser and magnet therapy, was described as a fracture.
He had to cancel his vacation to Africa in July due to knee problems.
He scoffed at reports that he had been given a stomach cancer diagnosis following his colon surgery in July 2021, calling it “court gossip.”
Francis said he would want to visit Moscow and Kyiv if it is possible following his trip to Canada this month.
Following Russia’s invasion of Ukraine in February, the pontiff said he was hoping for an invitation to meet with Russian President Vladimir Putin and repeatedly offered to assist in mediating the conflict.
