The Pope Emeritus Puzzle: Will Pope Francis rewrite the Rules of Resignation?

With speculation running rife whether Pope Francis could resign, and whether he might retire to a residence in the Vatican Gardens like Benedict XVI, it is worth analyzing what the pope has actually said — and how this aligns with his wider project of a reform for the Roman Curia and the Catholic Church.

Speaking with the Mexican television company Televisa, Pope Francis has made it known, once again, that he does not intend to give up the Petrine ministry. If and when he does though, he would not take the title of Pope Emeritus.

Instead, Francis would become Bishop Emeritus of Rome. He would hear confessions and dedicate himself to the poor.

His recent comments suggest Pope Francis might go to live in the Lateran Palace, which is the seat of the pope as Bishop of Rome.

In this interview, Pope Francis also discussed –– in clear terms –– how he thinks the office of Pope Emeritus should be defined and how he would interpret his own role after a possible renunciation.

Pope Francis’ conception of the office differs from that of his predecessor: Benedict XVI decided to take the title of Pope Emeritus, to continue wearing white, although without la pellegrina, which is the white mantle symbolizing episcopal authority.

Benedict XVI defined the terms of his resignation in his last general audience as Pope on February 27, 2013: "There can no longer be a return to the private sphere. My decision to resign the active exercise of the ministry does not revoke this. I do not return to private life, to a life of travel, meetings, receptions, conferences, and so on. I am not abandoning the cross, but remaining in a new way at the side of the crucified Lord. "