AceShowbiz - On Saturday, December 7, Pope Francis appeared at St. Peter's Basilica with a prominent bruise on his chin, sparking concerns about his health. However, the Vatican press office has attributed the injury to a minor fall he sustained the previous night, hitting his chin on his bedside table.

Despite the bruise, the 87-year-old pope appeared in good spirits as he installed 21 new cardinals from 17 countries, including Peru, Argentina, Japan, the Philippines, Algeria, India, and Serbia. These cardinals will eventually elect Francis's successor.

Francis has faced various health issues in recent years, including intestinal surgery for an abdominal hernia in June 2023 and hospitalization for bronchitis in April 2023. He also uses a wheelchair and other mobility devices due to back and knee issues.

In addition to his health concerns, Francis recently announced the publication of his autobiography, titled "Hope", in January 2025. This marks the first time a sitting pope has released a memoir. The book, written in collaboration with Carlo Musso, will be available during the 2025 Jubilee of Hope, a year-long religious event that encourages repentance and forgiveness.

Despite the ongoing health concerns, Francis remains an influential figure in the Catholic Church, focused on promoting inclusivity and global engagement. He has appointed a diverse group of cardinals, increasing the likelihood that the next pope will prioritize similar values.