Pope Francis has been diagnosed with bronchitis and, as a result, will continue his meetings from his Vatican residence, Casa Santa Marta, over the next few days, according to the Vatican’s Holy See Press Office.
On Thursday, February 6, the Vatican confirmed that the Holy Father, 88, will hold audiences with an association of Italian midwives and Eastern Orthodox priests and monks on February 7 and 8, 2025, at Casa Santa Marta, instead of the Apostolic Palace, as initially planned. “Due to bronchitis, from which he is suffering at this time, and in order to continue his activities, on Friday, Feb. 7, and Saturday, Feb. 8, Pope Francis’ audiences will be held at Casa Santa Marta,” a statement from the Holy See Press Office explained.
The Pope had also altered his schedule earlier in the week. His meetings on February 6 with Italian midwives and Eastern Orthodox clergy were held in his residence instead of the Apostolic Palace. Notably, Pope Francis did not read aloud his prepared speeches for these gatherings, which have become more common due to his ongoing health concerns.
Earlier this week, Pope Francis had also delegated the reading of his catechesis during his Wednesday audience on February 5, as he was unable to read it himself due to his bronchitis. His aide took on the responsibility of reading the Pope’s remarks to the faithful during the weekly audience, which was held in the Paul VI Hall.
Despite his illness, the Holy Father remains determined to fulfill his pastoral duties. He is scheduled to preside over a Mass in St. Peter’s Square on Sunday, February 9, marking the second special weekend of the 2025 Jubilee of Hope. This event will specifically honor the Armed Forces, Police, and Security Personnel.
This health setback is just the latest in a series of challenges Pope Francis has faced in recent years. Along with respiratory infections, the Pope has battled knee problems that have at times required him to use a wheelchair, as well as a fall that resulted in a contusion to his forearm. Despite these obstacles, Pope Francis continues to carry out his papal responsibilities, even when he must adjust his schedule to manage his health, such as when he livestreamed his Angelus prayer and message from Casa Santa Marta in December 2024 due to a cold.
We continue to pray for the health and strength of Pope Francis, asking for the intercession of St. Raphael the Archangel, patron of healing.
