I understand the intentions, but I also understand that the bible issues commandments. Isnt’ there a story about Peter denying Christ 3x before the rooster crows? Isnt’ there a warning about what will happen to us during our judgement, if we deny Christ? Generally speaking, the bible takes a dim view on this sort of thing.
Biblically speaking, there are no Biblical precidents for this sort of action; and most certainly no precident for setting a SOP on this sort of event. Prisons in biblical times were far move harsh and violent than what we have in modern times.
The Pope wasn’t talking about “denying Christ” in any way, shape or form. He was talking about resigning his office so as to deny Hitler the prize of having the Pope of Rome as his prisoner.
Popes can abdicate and some have because of age and illness.