Holy See!

To the editor:

Pope Francis was elected pontiff in 2013. Four years ago he was hospitalized for 11 days and when asked about his health he answered, “Still alive. Although some people wanted me dead…. They were preparing the conclave (to elect a new pope).” And after a recent five-week hospital stay where he was treated for double pneumonia, Francis, 88, was discharged Sunday.

But another plot has emerged surrounding the pope’s serious health condition. Anticipating Francis’ death, an anonymous cardinal circulated a letter stating that the new pope should remedy the “confusion, division and conflict” created by Francis. 

Catholic dogma declares the pope “infallible” when acting ex cathedra — by virtue of the office — regarding biblical faith and morals. This doctrine is based on Jesus choosing Peter as the first pope proclaiming, “And I tell you Peter, and on this rock I will build my church…. I will give you the keys of the kingdom of heaven..”

After a secret election by the College of Cardinals, which is composed only of men, the pope obtains supreme power. He has the final word on all matters of the Holy See without any appeal process.

But Francis has not followed custom in leading 1.3 billion Catholics. He’s a social justice advocate, an environmentalist, prioritizes the needs of the poor and marginalized and has blessed gay couples. But like all popes, he’s a monarch and answers to no one but God.

And in keeping with established spiritually paradoxical precedent, some of the Vatican’s illuminati have challenged Francis’ infallibility by disagreeing with and criticizing him.

No man is infallible and the Holy See theocracy is not immune to the ubiquitous lust for power. Power tempts popes, cardinals and laypersons alike.

Marc Bullaro