MOSCOW, August 21 (RIA Novosti) - On Monday Pope Francis for the first time publicly considered the possibility of his own death and the prospects of retirement, according to AFP.
"I see it as the generosity of the people of God,” the pontiff told AFP when asked about his worldwide popularity. “I try to think of my sins, my mistakes, not to become proud. Because I know it will last only a short time. Two or three years and then I'll be off to the Father's House."
A Vatican source also told AFP that the Pope previously shared his belief in that he may die in a few years with those close to him.
The pontiff also mentioned that he considers the possibility of retirement. He pointed out how Catholic bishops now could easily retire, a practice virtually unheard of 60 years ago.
“Benedict XVI opened a door,” he told AFP.
