The resignation of Pope Benedict XVI has demonstrated the process by which a pope might step down and be replaced.

I am not sure how many of the events that have unfolded in Rome over the past 35 years will make it into the history books. Certainly, the resignation of Pope Benedict XVI in 2013, the first pontiff to do so in six centuries,

Francis' hospital stay is raising questions about what happens if he loses consciousness for a prolonged period, or whether he might follow in Pope Benedict XVI's footsteps and resign.

The resignation of Pope Benedict XVI has demonstrated the process by which a pope might step down and be replaced.

Pope Francis’ hospital stay is raising obvious questions about what happens if he loses consciousness for a prolonged period, or whether he might follow in Pope Benedict XVI’s footsteps and resign if he becomes unable to lead.

While the Vatican has detailed laws and rituals to ... raising obvious questions about whether he might follow in Pope Benedict XVI's footsteps and resign if he becomes unable to lead.

And the postulator of St. John Paul II's sainthood cause, Msgr. Slawomir Oder, in 2010 published the letters Pope John Paul prepared in 1989 and in 1994 offering the College of Cardinals his resignation in case of an incurable disease or other condition that would prevent him from fulfilling his ministry.

When the Pope passes away, a complex and ancient process begins. Join us as we explore the intricate steps of papal succession, from the moment of death to the election of a new pontiff. Discover the fascinating traditions and rituals that have guided the Catholic Church for centuries.

On Wednesday, doctors said Francis’ kidney failure “has subsided” and a CT scan of his chest “showed a normal progression of the lung inflammation.” Blood tests also confirmed the pope’s health is improving.

Concerns over Pope Francis' health have mounted in recent years as have questions about his succession. Here's what we know.

The pope was admitted to hospital on February 14 where he is fighting a complex respiratory infection and pneumonia in both lungs.

Pope Benedict XVI ’s resignation in 2013 marked a historic moment for the Catholic Church, making him the first pontiff in nearly 600 years to step down (the last was Gregory XII in 1415).