Pope Francis has faced a significant setback in his battle against pneumonia, as his condition worsened on Monday, prompting urgent medical intervention. The 88-year-old Pontiff, who has been in Rome’s Gemelli Hospital for 17 days, suffered two episodes of acute respiratory failure, according to the Holy See Press Office. The Vatican’s statement clarified that these episodes were caused by a “significant accumulation of endobronchial mucus and subsequent bronchospasm.” As part of his treatment, Pope Francis underwent two bronchoscopies to aspirate “copious secretions,” and “noninvasive mechanical ventilation was resumed in the afternoon.”
Despite these challenges, the Holy Father remained “alert, oriented, and cooperative at all times,” which provided some comfort amid the ongoing health crisis. This latest complication marks a worsening of his pneumonia, which has already kept him hospitalized for over two weeks.
Earlier in the weekend, the Pope showed signs of improvement following a coughing fit on Friday evening, with the Vatican announcing that he had “rested well” and was briefly taken off ventilation. He resumed therapies and had breakfast the following morning, offering hope that his condition might stabilize.
However, the recent developments have been a cause for concern. The Vatican’s statement confirmed that his prognosis remains “reserved,” and many around the world continue to pray for the Pope’s recovery. Thousands of well-wishers have gathered in prayer at St. Peter’s Basilica and outside the hospital, where tributes and flowers have been placed around a statue of Pope John Paul II. People have been seen clutching crucifixes and praying near the Pope’s ward as he receives treatment.
In addition to his health struggles, Pope Francis has continued to engage with global matters. From the hospital, he sent a message addressing what he described as a “planetary crisis,” underscoring the need for peace amidst ongoing conflicts. Despite his illness, he has maintained communication with Gaza’s Catholic church, reiterating his call for peace and dialogue.
As the Pope faces these health challenges, the faithful around the world remain united in prayer, asking for his strength and healing.
I would like to say thank you for a dear Pope who has always done his best, sadly been unable to change much, but what he has done is amazing. He’s approachable, kind to his people. Lovely man. God bless him. I hope he can stay with us for longer.