Pope Francis enjoyed a restful night early Monday as he continued recovering from a recent health scare linked to pneumonia, the Vatican confirmed. The 88-year-old pontiff remains stable, is no longer on mechanical ventilation, and shows no signs of a new infection following a respiratory crisis late last week.
“The pope rested well all night,” the Vatican said in a statement from Rome’s Gemelli hospital, where Francis has been receiving treatment since February 14.
Doctors reported that Francis spent all of Sunday without requiring the noninvasive mechanical ventilation mask used to assist his breathing following a coughing episode on Friday. However, he continues to receive high-flow supplemental oxygen through a nasal tube.
AP Photo/Andrew Medichini
Why It Matters
The crisis began when the pope inhaled some vomit, raising concerns over a potential lung infection. Medical staff promptly aspirated the material and indicated they would monitor him closely for 24 to 48 hours to assess any new complications. By Sunday evening, doctors confirmed that Francis remained stable with no fever or signs of infection, suggesting he had overcome the immediate health threat. Nevertheless, his prognosis remains guarded.
Francis, who lost part of a lung in his youth due to a severe infection, was admitted to Gemelli after a bout of bronchitis escalated into complex pneumonia affecting both lungs. His health has been a subject of concern in recent years, with recurring respiratory issues and mobility challenges due to knee problems.
AP Photo/Mosa’ab Elshamy
What to Know
The Vatican also confirmed that Francis received a visit from Secretary of State Cardinal Pietro Parolin and his chief of staff, Archbishop Edgar Peña Parra, though details of their discussions were not disclosed. The pontiff typically holds regular meetings with top aides, even while at the Vatican.
AP Photo/Kirsty Wigglesworth
For a second consecutive week, Francis skipped his traditional Sunday noon blessing, opting instead to release a written message from his hospital suite. In the statement, he expressed gratitude to his doctors and well-wishers and reiterated his call for peace, particularly in Ukraine.
“From here, war appears even more absurd,” the pope wrote. He described his hospitalization as an opportunity to experience solidarity with those who are ill, embracing the fragility of life as a moment of faith.
“I feel in my heart the ‘blessing’ hidden within frailty, because it is precisely in these moments that we learn even more to trust in the Lord,” Francis said. “At the same time, I thank God for giving me the opportunity to share in body and spirit the condition of so many sick and suffering people.”
AP Photo/Mosa’ab Elshamy
What People Are Saying
At the Vatican on Sunday evening, Cardinal Konrad Krajewski, the pope’s personal almoner, led the Rosary prayer in St. Peter’s Square.
“Let us pray together with the entire church for the health of the Holy Father Francis,” Krajewski said. Under Francis’ leadership, the role of almoner has been expanded to reflect his deep commitment to charity and aiding those in need.
What Happens Next
As Francis continues his recovery, the Vatican has not provided a timeline for his discharge. However, his latest health update suggests he is making steady progress despite ongoing concerns about his long-term condition.