Pope Francis, who turned 86 yesterday , has already signed his resignation .

He revealed this in an interview with the Spanish newspaper Abc, adding that when he signed the document «the Secretary of State was Tarcisio Bertone. I signed it and told him: “In case of impediment for medical reasons or whatever, here is my resignation. You already have them." I don't know who Cardinal Bertone gave them to, but I gave them to him when he was secretary of state».

The journalist had asked him what would happen if a Pope suddenly became invalid due to health problems or an accident, and if a standard would not be suitable for these cases.

On the fact that Paul VI also left his resignation in writing in case of permanent impediment, Bergoglio reiterates: "Exactly, and I think Pius XII too". " It's the first time I've said it ," adds Francis about his already signed resignation. “That's why I'm making it public. Now someone will go and ask Bertone: "Give me the piece of paper!" – he concludes laughing – He probably handed it over to Cardinal Pietro Parolin, the new secretary of state. I gave it to Bertone as secretary of state».

(Unioneonline/ss)