The recent death of Pope Francis on April 21 has sparked renewed attention to the centuries-old “Prophecy of the Popes,” also known as the prophecy of St. Malachy. According to some interpretations, this controversial document suggests that Pope Francis may have been the final pope the Church will ever see. Said to date back more than 900 years, the prophecy—described in the Catholic Encyclopedia—purports to list every pope from 1143 until the end of time. On a surface reading, it appears to conclude with Pope Francis, implying that his death might signal the end of the age. However, a closer examination raises serious questions about the authenticity and credibility of the prophecy. Here's what you need to know.
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