Pope Francis continues to receive medical care for bilateral pneumonia at Rome’s Gemelli Hospital, with his clinical condition remaining stable. As the Holy Father observed Ash Wednesday, he took time to engage in work activities and personally reached out to the Catholic community in Gaza.
Pope Francis’ Health Update
According to the Holy See Press Office, the Pope “remained stable today as well, without any episodes of respiratory insufficiency.” While his condition requires close monitoring, he continues to follow his prescribed treatment, which includes “supplemental, high-flow oxygenation,” and, as scheduled, “non-invasive mechanical ventilation will be resumed tonight.”
The Vatican further reported that Pope Francis has been undergoing respiratory and motor physiotherapy. Throughout the day, he was seated in his armchair and continued to participate in spiritual and work-related activities. The Holy See noted that “given the complexity of the clinical situation, the prognosis remains guarded.”
Observing Ash Wednesday from the Hospital
Despite his hospitalization, Pope Francis observed the solemnity of Ash Wednesday from his private apartment on the 10th floor of the hospital. The Vatican reported that “the Holy Father participated in the rite of the blessing of the Sacred Ashes, which were imposed on him by the celebrant. He then received the Eucharist.”
The Pope also maintained his pastoral outreach, placing a phone call to Father Gabriel Romanelli, the parish priest of the Holy Family Church in Gaza. His concern for the faithful in Gaza reflects his ongoing commitment to shepherding the Church, even while recovering from illness.
Continued Medical Treatment
Pope Francis’ treatment regimen remains consistent. As reported by the Holy See Press Office, “he transitioned from non-invasive mechanical ventilation at night to the high-flow oxygen therapy through nasal cannulas.” Additionally, his overall clinical condition, including “heart, kidney, and blood values,” remains stable.
On Tuesday evening, the Vatican confirmed that the Pope had not experienced “episodes of respiratory failure or bronchospasm,” nor had he developed a fever. Instead, he remained “alert, cooperative with therapies, and oriented.”
As part of his recovery, the Pope has been balancing rest with moments of prayer and work. The Holy See reported that he “alternated between spending time in prayer and at rest, and received the Eucharist.”
A Church United in Prayer
The Catholic faithful around the world continue to pray for Pope Francis’ swift recovery. His willingness to remain engaged in pastoral work, even from a hospital bed, demonstrates his enduring commitment to the Church and its mission. While his condition remains under careful observation, the Vatican’s updates provide hope that the Holy Father is responding positively to treatment.
As the season of Lent begins, Pope Francis’ steadfastness in faith and devotion to his duties serve as an inspiration to Catholics worldwide. Let us continue to pray for his health and for the Church he so lovingly leads.
