The article was written by Vittorio Messori, the journalist who in 1994 helped to produce the pontiff's best-selling book "Crossing the Threshold of Hope".

Mr Messori did not name his source for the story, but said his information was "recent and certain".

There has been growing speculation that John Paul II could be forced to resign because of ill health.

He is 82, and has found it increasingly difficult to cope with lengthy public appearances

Resignation is allowed under church law, but in modern times no Pope has left the job before his death.

Should the Pope resign? Tell us what you think.

He trivialises the position of Pope if he doesn't show that it is a full time, full faculty job

Roy, USA

The Pope has a duty to his flock to step down when and if he realises he's not up to the job. Age and ill health do not necessarily mean he should not remain Pontiff but he trivialises the position of Pope if he doesn't show that it is a full time, full faculty job. He should allow himself the time to put his feet up.
Roy, USA

Two important marks of a true Christian leader are that they should be faithful to biblical teachings and that they should clearly expound the doctrines of grace (the basis of conversion and salvation). The Pope has consistently and woefully failed in both these areas. Surely therefore he must resign.
Jonathan Rogers, UK

He should if he is no longer able to perform his duties. It is quite a job, to be spiritual head of the Catholic Church, and if he is no longer able to perform, mentally or physically, then he should gracefully step aside.
Roxanne, USA

Many have called on the Pope to resign, but these people are speaking from a purely atheist, secular angle. What they fail to grasp is that being Pope, is much more than a job, it is a statement that one is fully committed to following Christ - and if physical and mental suffering intervene, then one continues. This is not a job, but a devotion to God.
Dave O'Brien, Leeds, UK

The Pope should never resign. He has during his pontificate brought hope, faith and comfort to the people of the world, not just us Catholics or Christians. John Paul II, despite suffering from Parkinson's, and other ailments, shows his strength in his faith and love for GOD and the people of GOD by bringing the words of the bible and giving hope to the world. He should stay in office as he is a rock in a sea of turmoil.
Daniel, Boston, USA

His Holiness is able, just, to continue with his duties as Pontiff. He is obviously an unwell man, and as we know a stubborn one who will not give in to his own infirmities. However, could it not be that his duties are what keep him alive? Without the constant battle maybe he would simply fade away. There is, though, another problem. What will happen to the leadership of the Church if he becomes incapable of continuing? Yes, allow him to continue in office as long as he is able to carry out his duties, but at least have contingency plans for the time when he cannot.
Philip, England

I believe that if for health reasons the Pope cannot fulfil his loyalties to the Church he must retire, and let another fulfil the responsibilities. I think until that time he should remain as Pope and try to bring peace back to the Church.
Holden, USA