ROME (AP) — Pope Francis continued his slow recovery from double pneumonia on Thursday, beating back speculation of an imminent death, resignation or conclave and signalling that he was still very much in charge albeit in a weakened state.

While the Vatican has detailed laws and rituals to ... raising obvious questions about whether he might follow in Pope Benedict XVI's footsteps and resign if he becomes unable to lead.

And the postulator of St. John Paul II's sainthood cause, Msgr. Slawomir Oder, in 2010 published the letters Pope John Paul prepared in 1989 and in 1994 offering the College of Cardinals his resignation in case of an incurable disease or other condition that would prevent him from fulfilling his ministry.

When the Pope passes away, a complex and ancient process begins. Join us as we explore the intricate steps of papal succession, from the moment of death to the election of a new pontiff. Discover the fascinating traditions and rituals that have guided the Catholic Church for centuries.

On Wednesday, doctors said Francis’ kidney failure “has subsided” and a CT scan of his chest “showed a normal progression of the lung inflammation.” Blood tests also confirmed the pope’s health is improving.

Concerns over Pope Francis' health have mounted in recent years as have questions about his succession. Here's what we know.

Concerns over Pope Francis' health have mounted in recent years as have questions about his succession. Here's what we know.

Pope Benedict XVI ’s resignation in 2013 marked a historic moment for the Catholic Church, making him the first pontiff in nearly 600 years to step down (the last was Gregory XII in 1415).

The Vatican said the 88-year-old pope once again slept well during the night at Rome’s Gemelli hospital and was resting Thursday morning.