At 87 years old, Pope Francis is gearing up for what may be his most demanding trip yet as the leader of the Catholic Church. Set to begin next week, this 12-day journey will take him to Indonesia, Papua New Guinea, East Timor, and Singapore, covering a staggering 43 hours of flight time and 32,000 kilometers. This ambitious itinerary is raising eyebrows, particularly in light of recent health issues that have sparked speculation about his ability to continue fulfilling his role.
Originally planned for 2020 but delayed due to the COVID-19 pandemic, this will be Pope Francis’s 45th trip abroad. The Vatican has been buzzing with concern over his health, especially since he had to scale back his participation in this year’s Easter events due to lingering flu symptoms. Additionally, he canceled a planned trip to the United Nations climate talks in Dubai after suffering from bronchitis and underwent hernia surgery in June, which required a 10-day hospital stay.
A Grueling Schedule
Despite these health challenges, Pope Francis remains resolute. His upcoming trip includes 16 speeches and numerous meetings and ceremonies across four countries. A senior Vatican diplomat explained the Pope’s determination, stating, “The pope still believes that we need to push a little further. He feels capable of making this trip this year. Next year, it will be less certain.”
Since 2022, Pope Francis has relied on a wheelchair for knee pain and recurring sciatica. He now uses an elevator to board his plane and remains seated during press conferences on return flights. Although he always travels with his personal doctor and a nurse, no new health precautions have been taken for this trip, according to a Vatican source. “His general condition is good, there were no concerns this summer,” the source added.
Admiration and Concern in the Vatican
Within the Vatican, the Pope’s decision to undertake this journey has sparked a mix of admiration and concern. While many admire his determination, there is also “a certain annoyance at the pope’s relentlessness, which puts his health and security services on edge,” according to a Vatican official.
Andrea Ungar, president of the Italian Society of Gerontology and Geriatrics, praised the Pope’s determination, saying, “This trip demonstrates once again the pope’s strength of spirit and shows how, despite age, things can still be done.” Ungar emphasized that the Pope is a “great example” for older adults to remain active, adding, “The more you stand still, the more you stay still.”
Italian academic Massimo Faggioli, who closely follows the papacy, described the trip as “a show of strength for Pope Francis.”
A Busy Schedule Ahead
Less than two weeks after returning from this extensive journey, Pope Francis is set to embark on another four-day trip to Luxembourg and Belgium, beginning on September 26. October will bring the General Assembly of the Synod of Bishops, a crucial event that will shape the future path and priorities of the global Catholic Church. Additionally, in December, Pope Francis will kick off the 2025 Jubilee, a year-long pilgrimage event expected to draw around 32 million faithful to Rome.
As Pope Francis prepares for these significant events, his determination to continue his mission despite health concerns serves as a powerful example of resilience and dedication.