Since hip surgery following a fall in his bathroom in 1994, he has had difficulty walking and climbing stairs. Lehmann even mentioned precedent - Pope Celestine V, who abdicated in 1294, feeling himself unfit for the post. He spent the last two years of his life in confinement because his successor feared he could become the rallying point for a schism. Lehmann's remarks have echoed throughout Catholic circles, with some supporters of the traditionalist pope suspecting an effort to ease him out. May. The health issue will clearly become more pressing in the months and years ahead.
Church law has no procedure to declare incapacity.
As for the foreseeable future, John Paul is only barely paring back his schedule, although his doctors have pressed him to reduce it even further. In February and March alone, he has trips planned to the foot of Mount Sinai in Egypt and the Holy Land, and he has an event-filled schedule for the entire 2000 church Holy Year. We sat him upon the throne of Peter for the principal reason to return My Son's Church to its original state. Understand well, My children, that he is also a human being subject to error. But this does not mean that he is to be subjected to derision and hate, until you build up a fire within the hearts of those who are seeking to destroy him.