Pope Francis has been admitted to Rome’s Gemelli Hospital for medical treatment of bronchitis after battling illness for over a week. The Vatican announced that his schedule would be cleared until at least the morning of February 17 while he undergoes “diagnostic tests” and treatment, according to Vatican spokesman Matteo Bruni.
This latest hospitalization is part of an ongoing series of health challenges for the 88-year-old pontiff, who has struggled with breathlessness in recent months. His condition has often prevented him from delivering entire speeches or homilies. Most recently, he was treated for a contusion on his right forearm after a fall at his residence and suffered a facial injury and cold during the Christmas season.
Pope Francis, who has served as the Bishop of Rome for over a decade, was largely in good health for much of his papacy but has faced increasing medical difficulties in recent years. His health concerns date back at least to December 2020, when he suffered from sciatic pain, forcing him to cancel Vatican liturgies on New Year’s Eve and New Year’s Day. “Sciatica is very painful, very painful! I don’t wish it on anyone,” he told journalists during an in-flight press conference in July 2013, according to CNA.
A History of Health Challenges
The pope’s struggles with mobility became more pronounced in 2022 when he started using a wheelchair and walking cane due to persistent knee pain. In May 2022, he revealed that he was undergoing “an intervention with infiltrations,” which was believed to be a therapeutic injection to relieve ligament pain. Despite his limitations, he has continued to engage with pilgrims and Vatican officials, often adapting his schedule to accommodate his condition.
His health challenges have also led to postponed travel plans. In June 2022, the Vatican postponed his planned visit to the Democratic Republic of Congo and South Sudan due to concerns over his knee treatment. The Vatican explained that the delay was necessary “at the request of his doctors, and in order not to jeopardize the results of the therapy that he is undergoing for his knee.”
Francis has also undergone major surgeries, including a three-hour colon surgery in July 2021 due to diverticulitis, requiring the removal of a portion of his colon. In June 2023, he underwent abdominal surgery to repair an incisional hernia at the site of his previous operation. He spent eight days in the hospital recovering before returning to his duties.
Strength in the Face of Adversity
Despite his health challenges, Pope Francis continues to lead the Church with determination and faith. Even while dealing with respiratory issues in late 2023, he remained steadfast in his mission, delivering the Angelus blessing from his residence. During his weekly general audiences, he has spoken candidly about the effects of aging, noting, “When you are old, you are no longer in control of your body… One must then learn to purify desire: Be patient, choose what to ask of the body and of life” (June 15, 2022, General Audience).
In recent months, his health struggles have been evident, as he was seen with visible bruising on his face after a fall in December 2024. The Vatican confirmed he had hit his chin on a bedside table but continued with his scheduled appearances, including the consistory for the creation of new cardinals.
Looking Ahead
As Pope Francis remains under medical care for bronchitis, Catholics around the world are offering prayers for his recovery. His hospitalization serves as a reminder of his enduring commitment to serving the Church despite his physical limitations. The faithful continue to hope for his swift return to health, trusting in God’s providence for the shepherd of the Catholic Church.
