After more than a month of hospitalization, Pope Francis was discharged from Rome’s Gemelli Hospital on March 23, 2025. The 88-year-old Pontiff had been admitted on February 14 with severe respiratory complications, including double pneumonia. His return to the Vatican marked the end of a difficult chapter—but not everyone sees it as a triumph.
“He Should Retire”: Pope Francis’ Recovery Triggers Unexpected Reactions Online
During his five-week stay, Pope Francis faced critical, life-threatening moments. Doctors worked around the clock to stabilize him, and at several points, his condition raised serious concerns about his survival. Despite this, he made a brief public appearance from his hospital window to bless those gathered outside—an act that highlighted his enduring commitment and spiritual strength.
His recovery, though remarkable, came with strict medical advice: two full months of rest and rehabilitation.
BREAKING: A visibly impaired #PopeFrancis appears at the window of the Gemelli Hospital in Rome for the first time in over a month. He is being discharged for at least two months of recovery to his Vatican Apartment. Even this appearance seems a major strain on the Pontiff. 🙏 pic.twitter.com/NbyIpVzJMD
— Raymond Arroyo (@RaymondArroyo) March 23, 2025
A Wave of Criticism Instead of Support
However, what followed his discharge caught many by surprise. Instead of collective relief or support, social media became a space for growing calls for his resignation.
Comments like “Why isn’t he resigning?”, “The church needs an active Pope”, and “He should learn from Pope Benedict” reflect a growing sentiment that the Pope should step down due to his fragile health.
Others went further, questioning the purpose of his return: “Returning to the Vatican to do what?” and “Get a young dude… hospital bills will be saved.”
This unexpected backlash reveals not only concerns about leadership but also the increasing pressure on elderly figures in public roles to step aside.
Pope Francis has not responded to these calls, and he won’t. For now, he remains under medical supervision, focusing on rest and rehabilitation. Whether or not he considers stepping down, his recent illness has sparked a deeper conversation about age, leadership, and the future of the Catholic Church.