Rome, Italy – The recent passing of Pope Francis has not only marked the end of a significant papal era but has also reignited discussions surrounding a centuries-old prophecy attributed to Saint Malachy. This prophecy, known as the “Prophecy of the Popes,” has captivated scholars and believers alike with its cryptic predictions about the succession of popes and the eventual fate of the Catholic Church.
The Prophecy’s Origins and Content
Attributed to Saint Malachy, a 12th-century Archbishop of Armagh, the prophecy consists of 112 short Latin phrases, each purportedly describing a future pope. First published in 1595 by Benedictine monk Arnold Wyon, the document’s authenticity has been a topic of debate among historians and theologians. While some believe it to be a genuine vision received by Saint Malachy during a visit to Rome, others argue it was a 16th-century forgery crafted to influence papal elections.
The Final Pope: ‘Peter the Roman’
The prophecy’s final entry refers to a pope named “Peter the Roman,” who is said to shepherd the Church through a period of tribulation, culminating in the destruction of Rome and the Last Judgment:
“In the final persecution of the Holy Roman Church, there will reign Peter the Roman, who will feed his flock amid many tribulations, after which the city of seven hills will be destroyed, and the dreadful Judge will judge the people. The End.”
With Pope Francis being the 112th pope on the list, some interpret this as an indication that his successor will be the prophesied “Peter the Roman.” However, Pope Francis’s birth name, Jorge Mario Bergoglio, and his chosen papal name do not directly align with this title, leading to varied interpretations.
Skepticism and Scholarly Debate
Many scholars question the prophecy’s authenticity, citing the lack of historical references prior to its 16th-century publication and the specificity of earlier predictions compared to the vagueness of later ones. Some suggest it was created to bolster the candidacy of Cardinal Girolamo Simoncelli during the 1590 papal conclave.
Despite skepticism, the prophecy continues to intrigue many, especially during times of papal transition. The symbolic language and historical coincidences have kept the discussion alive, even as the Church prepares to elect a new pope.
Looking Ahead
As the College of Cardinals convenes to select the next leader of the Catholic Church, the world watches with anticipation. Whether or not the “Prophecy of the Popes” holds any truth, it serves as a reminder of the enduring human fascination with prophecy and the future.
