Doctors have declared that Pope Francis is no longer in imminent danger from pneumonia. However, the 88-year-old pontiff remains hospitalised at Rome’s Gemelli hospital for further treatment.
A Vatican statement confirmed that his condition is stable. Blood tests and positive responses to drug therapy indicate progress. Due to the complexity of his infection and overall health, doctors insist on continued hospital care.
Despite his hospitalisation, Pope Francis stays engaged with Vatican affairs. On Monday, he joined the Catholic Church’s annual Lenten spiritual retreat via videoconference. He listened to Rev. Roberto Pasolini deliver meditations on “The hope of eternal life.” Although he could see and hear Pasolini, the clergy gathered at the Vatican could not.
This retreat marks the start of Lent and will continue throughout the week. The Vatican said Francis is joining the retreat “in spiritual communion” with the church hierarchy.
Earlier on Monday, the Vatican reported that Francis resumed physical and respiratory therapy after a restful night. He still receives supplemental oxygen via a nasal tube and uses a noninvasive ventilation mask at night.
Pope Francis has lived with chronic lung disease since his youth. Part of one lung was removed, and his recent illness began as bronchitis. It then progressed into a complex respiratory infection and double pneumonia. This is his longest hospitalisation since he became pope in 2013.
Despite his health challenges, Francis remains informed about global events. He was briefed on severe flooding in Argentina and expressed solidarity with those affected. Vatican Cardinal Michael Czerny also issued a public letter. The letter refuted rumors about disturbances at the hospital and reassured Argentine activist Juan Grabois that the pope was well cared for.
Speculation over Francis’s condition and the future of his papacy has grown during his absence. With the Vatican set to mark the 12th anniversary of his election on Thursday, questions remain about what lies ahead. The Vatican insists that Francis remains in charge despite ongoing medical care.
Medical professionals have reported that Francis has been stable for over a week. He has had no fever, respiratory crises, or oxygen level concerns. Although his recovery is progressing, his prognosis remains “guarded.” Doctors are expected to provide further updates later on Monday.
