This question may sound rude but, if someone as holy as the pope were to commit suicide would he go to hell? Considering his devotion to god wouldn't he get some sort of pass? I think someone who gives up on life's desires and focuses on spreading faith shouldn't be sent to hell. And again if this is insulting then I apologize. I used the Pope for my question because I believe that one who holds the position of Pope would be extremely devoted and most likely the most devoted.
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1An hypothetical question can only be answered with an opinion-based response, which is off-topic on this site.– Nigel JCommented Jan 17, 2020 at 9:53
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4Suicides are not an automatic ticket to Hell in the Catholic Church. Mental health or any number of issues come into play. This is true even for a pope. God’s mercy extends to all mankind.– Ken Graham ♦Commented Jan 17, 2020 at 11:54
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2I think the questioner would be satisfied with an answer stating that "The pope would suffer the same fate as any other person in the same circumstances", which I believe to be true but I'm not certain enough to make it an answer.– DJClayworthCommented Jan 17, 2020 at 13:58
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Not, I believe, a hypothetical any more than "if a person commits a mortal sin do they go to hell".– DJClayworthCommented Jan 17, 2020 at 14:07
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@NigelJ CCC 2279-2282, and 2325 have some coverage of the topic.– KorvinStarmastCommented Jan 17, 2020 at 14:32
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1 Answer
The Pope does not get special treatment in spiritual matters such as Heaven, Hell and Judgement.
In other words, if you ask "Would the Pope go to hell if he did this?" the answer will always be the same as "Would a person go to Hell if he/she did this?", assuming other circumstances are the same.
As Ken Graham points out, suicide does not automatically send one to Hell, so there are other factors to consider. Those factors would be exactly the same as for someone who was not the Pope.
answered Jan 17, 2020 at 14:11
