From Luxtoday:
Cardinal Hollerich criticizes conclave rumors amid Pope Francis' illness
Cardinal Jean-Claude Hollerich, a close associate of Pope Francis and archbishop of Luxembourg, has strongly criticised speculation about a possible conclave, which has begun to circulate actively among the Vatican's top clergy. Hollerich called it "appalling" that some priests, bishops and cardinals are already contemplating choosing a new head of the Catholic Church while Pope Francis is still alive.
Hollerich noted that Pope Francis has repeatedly expressed his displeasure with such talk, finding it deeply disrespectful. Instead of speculating about future scenarios, the cardinal said, the faithful should support the pope in prayer and show sympathy for his state of health.
Pope Francis, who is 88 years old, has been undergoing treatment for 10 days at the Gemelli Clinic in Rome. He has been diagnosed with bilateral pneumonia and a respiratory infection caused by various pathogens. According to Vatican reports, the Pope's condition has deteriorated in recent days and blood tests have shown initial kidney failure, which remains under control for now.
Since his hospitalisation on 14 February, rumours have been circulating among the top Catholic clergy about Pope Francis' possible resignation for health reasons. There is already a pre-conclave atmosphere in Rome, which Hollerich says is deeply offensive to the pope and does not reflect true Christian values.
A conclave is a meeting of cardinal-electors to elect a new pope. It is held in the event of the Pope's death or voluntary resignation, as was the case with Benedict XVI in 2013.
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