For many Catholics unhappy about the direction of travel of the Church under Pope Francis, if and when he will resign are perhaps the most asked questions. This is not distasteful or idle court gossip. The Catholic Church is a hierarchical organisation directed in outlook and ideology by its leader, who a small College of Cardinals elect. This doesn’t mean the College can ignore sentiment within the Church, especially in an era when attendance is falling – including in unlikely places – and with the power of social media  Catholics have a megaphone. So, it is worth examining not just whether the Pontiff will quit but what the cardinals may do when he does.