Pope Francis is showing “slight improvements” in his health while continuing to work during his ongoing recovery at Casa Santa Marta, according to a health update provided by the Vatican on Tuesday.
The Holy Father, who is 88 years old, has been battling a lung infection for several weeks. Although the infection is “still ongoing though decreasing,” the Vatican stated that his overall clinical condition remains “stationary,” according to the Holy See Press Office.
Despite the challenges, Pope Francis continues to remain active in his ministry. “He receives documents from the various dicasteries and in the last few days has resumed some meetings,” the Vatican said, noting that he recently met with Cardinal Secretary of State Pietro Parolin. The pope also continues to concelebrate Mass daily and perform some of his pastoral duties.
The Holy Father is undergoing respiratory and motor physiotherapies that have led to “slight improvements in voice and mobility.” He continues to use nasal tubes during the day and receives high-flow oxygen therapy “at night” or “as needed,” the press office confirmed.
Pope Francis has also remained in occasional contact with the Catholic community in Gaza, with the press office adding, “Phone calls with the Gaza parish have continued albeit occasionally.”
As he continues his convalescence, the pope’s written catechesis on the theme “Jesus Christ Our Hope” is set to be released by the Vatican on Wednesday, offering spiritual nourishment to the faithful despite his physical absence from public ceremonies.
Looking ahead to the upcoming Holy Week liturgies, the Vatican noted that there are currently no “indications” or “predictions” regarding the pope’s public participation in the Vatican’s official events.
Since returning home from Rome’s Gemelli Hospital—where he stayed for nearly 40 days—the pope has made only one public appearance. On April 6, he briefly greeted pilgrims in St. Peter’s Square during the Jubilee of the Sick and Health Care Workers. During his address, Pope Francis expressed heartfelt appreciation for caregivers, saying, “Dear doctors, nurses, and health care workers, in caring for your patients, especially the most vulnerable among them, the Lord constantly affords you an opportunity to renew your lives through gratitude, mercy, and hope.”
As Catholics around the world continue to pray for the pope’s recovery, his example of perseverance and dedication, even in illness, stands as a profound witness to faith, service, and hope in Christ.
