Pope Francis is continuing his recovery from double pneumonia at Rome’s Gemelli Hospital, where he remains active, receiving visitors and keeping up with his work. The Holy See Press Office reported that the Holy Father had “a restful night and this morning, got out of bed and had breakfast in an armchair,” according to Vatican News.
Despite his illness, the pope’s dedication to his duties remains evident. “If you really want him to rest, you have to hospitalize him,” quipped Cardinal Jean-Marc Aveline, the archbishop of Marseille, France, referring to Pope Francis’ well-known work ethic during a Vatican press conference (Associated Press, AP).
Slight Improvement, Continued Treatment
Pope Francis was admitted to the hospital on February 14 for bronchitis, which later worsened into double pneumonia. The Vatican confirmed on Wednesday that blood tests showed a “slight improvement,” particularly in inflammatory markers (AP). Doctors noted that due to the pontiff’s “complex clinical picture,” a longer hospitalization is required (Vatican News).
The Holy Father’s daily routine remains structured despite his illness. The Vatican reported that after breakfast, he read newspapers and later met with his aides for work. Before lunch, he received the Eucharist, and in the afternoon, he had a 20-minute private visit with Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni (Vatican News). Meloni later said the pope was “alert and responsive” and that the two “joked as always” (AP).
Cardinals Express Confidence in Pope’s Strength
As questions about the pope’s health and potential resignation surfaced, Cardinal Gianfranco Ravasi addressed the matter, stating, “There is no question that if he (Francis) was in a situation where his ability to have direct contact (with people) as he likes to do … was compromised, then I think he might decide to resign” (AP).
Pope Francis has previously confirmed that he wrote a resignation letter shortly after his election in case he ever became medically incapable of fulfilling his duties. However, there is no indication that he is incapacitated, as he continues to work and receive visitors.
Cardinal Juan Josè Omella Omella reassured the faithful that the Church continues to thrive despite the pope’s hospitalization. “Popes change, we bishops change, priests in parishes change, communities change. But the train continues being on the move,” he said (AP).
Archbishop Giuseppe Satriano of Bari expressed confidence in the pope’s resilience, recalling how he completed a demanding four-nation trip to Asia in September despite concerns about his health. “Even during the long trip in Asia, the Swiss Guards and gendarmes came back more tired than he, and we all feared he’d come back destroyed. But he’s a fighter, so I think he’ll win this battle” (AP).
Request for Prayers
The Holy Father continues to request prayers for his recovery. His hospitalization has prompted the cancellation of several upcoming events, including weekend jubilee celebrations, but Vatican officials remain hopeful about his progress.
As Pope Francis remains under medical care, the Catholic faithful around the world join in prayer for his swift recovery, trusting in his strength and unwavering commitment to the Church.
