Pope Francis continues to recover from his recent hospitalization, with Vatican officials confirming that his condition has improved. However, doctors remain cautious due to the severity of his initial infection and the complexities of his overall health.
According to the Holy See Press Office, Pope Francis had a “restful night” and woke up around 8 a.m. Tuesday morning. He continues to undergo “treatment and his physical therapy for respiration and mobility” while also remaining engaged in his spiritual duties. Despite his hospitalization, the Holy Father participated in the Roman Curia’s Spiritual Exercises via video link and spent time in prayer at the chapel of his private apartment.
Doctors have now lifted their “guarded” prognosis, indicating that Pope Francis is no longer in imminent danger. As the Vatican stated, “given the complexity of the Pope’s clinical picture and the severe infection present at the time of hospitalization, it will still be necessary to continue pharmacological treatment in a hospital setting for a period of time.” This cautious approach reflects both the Pope’s age and his history of lung-related health issues. The 88-year-old Pontiff, who had part of one lung removed in his youth, “is still using supplemental oxygen during the day and a ventilation mask at night to help him breathe.”
Pope Francis was admitted to Gemelli Hospital nearly a month ago, initially suffering from what appeared to be bronchitis. His condition progressed into a more serious “complex respiratory tract infection and double pneumonia,” raising concerns about his ability to continue leading the Church. However, doctors have noted “improvements recorded in previous days were further consolidated, as confirmed by both blood tests and clinical findings, as well as by the Pope’s good response to pharmacological therapy.”
Despite his illness, Pope Francis remains actively involved in Church matters. This week holds particular significance for him, as Tuesday marked the 67th anniversary of his entry into the Jesuit order, and Thursday commemorates the 12th anniversary of his election as Pope. The Vatican also reported that he sent a message of prayer and support to those affected by recent deadly flooding in the Argentinian port city of Bahía Blanca and the nearby city of Cerri.
Amid speculation and rumors about his health, Vatican officials have addressed misinformation. Cardinal Michael Czerny defended Argentine social justice activist Juan Grabois, who had traveled to Rome to pray for Pope Francis but was falsely accused by some Italian media of attempting to forcibly enter the Pope’s hospital suite. Czerny wrote to Grabois, stating, “Francis knew of your presence in Rome and your daily vigils of prayer and spiritual solidarity at Gemelli Polyclinic, and I’m sure this gave him true comfort and support.”
As the Pope continues to recover, the Vatican remains steadfast in its reassurance that he is “very much alive and in charge,” even as speculation over the future of his papacy continues. Catholics around the world are encouraged to keep the Holy Father in their prayers, asking for his continued strength and healing.
Sources: Vatican News, Holy See Press Office
