Pope Francis To Resign In 2016... And Heres The Reason Why During his recent visit to the United States, Pope Francis rocked the boat when he demonstrated his willingness to push President Obamas political agenda. The Pope shocked the nation when he used his visit to lecture Americans about immigration, abortion, gay marriage, and refugees. Now, its been revealed that Pope Francis may intend to resign next year after he visits his home country of Argentina. The Popes visit marks the bicentennial of the 1816 Argentine Declaration of Independence. The Popes resignation comes after he has been marked as one of the most controversial leaders in the papacy. Pope Francis has caused quite the stir by supporting things like gay marriage, and unconventional family values. Conservative bishops have accused him of alienating traditional Catholics in an attempt to be liberal. 