In the wake of growing concerns about Pope Francis’ health and the uncertain future of the Catholic Church, a thousand-year-old prophecy has resurfaced—stirring both fascination and fear. The ancient prediction not only claims to foresee the identity of the next pontiff but also warns of catastrophic global events that may follow his papacy.

The Prophecy of the Popes

The prophecy in question is the Prophecy of the Popes, a mysterious manuscript attributed to Saint Malachy, a 12th-century Irish archbishop. According to legend, Saint Malachy experienced a divine vision during a visit to Rome in 1139. In it, he reportedly saw a sequence of 112 popes, each described with a cryptic Latin phrase. The final figure in the prophecy—“Peter the Roman”—is said to reign during the destruction of Rome and the Last Judgment.

Many believe that Pope Francis, born Jorge Mario Bergoglio, is the 111th pope on the list, and thus, the next pontiff would be the final one.

“Peter the Roman” — The Last Pope?

Speculation about “Peter the Roman” has circulated for centuries, but it has intensified in recent years. If the prophecy is accurate, the next pope will not only lead the Catholic Church during a time of great turmoil but may also witness the end of the Church itself—or worse, the end of civilization as we know it.

Scholars and religious commentators differ on whether “Peter the Roman” is a symbolic figure or a literal one. Some argue that the name could indicate a return to more traditional Catholic values or perhaps point to a pope of Italian heritage. Others interpret it as a warning of authoritarian rule, chaos, or divine reckoning.

A Church in Transition

The resurfacing of the prophecy comes at a time of growing instability within the Catholic Church. Pope Francis, 88, has faced numerous health scares over the past year. Although the Vatican has downplayed rumors of a possible resignation or worsening condition, insiders claim that contingency plans are already being discussed behind closed doors.

Sources suggest that several cardinals are preparing for a potential conclave—though no official statement has been made. Should Francis pass away or resign, the next papal election would be one of the most closely watched events in recent Church history.

A Chilling Warning for Humanity

What makes this prophecy especially unsettling is its ominous warning: after the reign of the final pope, the world will enter a period of unprecedented darkness. The prophecy reads:

“In the final persecution of the Holy Roman Church, there will sit Peter the Roman, who will pasture his sheep in many tribulations; and when these things are finished, the city of seven hills will be destroyed, and the dreadful Judge will judge his people.”

Some interpret this as a reference to war, natural disasters, or societal collapse. Conspiracy theorists have even linked the prediction to current global tensions, economic uncertainty, and climate disasters—suggesting the prophecy is beginning to unfold in real time.

Faith vs. Fear

While many religious experts urge caution, reminding the public that the Prophecy of the Popes was never officially recognized by the Catholic Church, others believe it should not be dismissed so easily.

“Whether you believe in the prophecy or not,” says Father Thomas Grady, a theologian based in Dublin, “there’s no denying that we are entering a critical era—not just for the Church, but for humanity as a whole. Perhaps the message is not about doom, but about awakening.”

What Comes Next?

As the world watches Pope Francis’ health with a mix of reverence and anxiety, the question of who will succeed him—and whether the ancient prophecy is real—continues to loom large.

Whether “Peter the Roman” is a symbol, a man, or merely a myth, one thing is certain: the intersection of faith, fear, and fate has never felt more powerful.