Pope Francis Resting Comfortably After Hospital Stay, Vatican Provides Update on Health

Pope Francis is resting comfortably following his 17th night in the hospital, with the Vatican providing a positive update on his condition.

The 88-year-old pontiff, who has been receiving treatment at Rome’s Gemelli Hospital since February 14 for bronchitis that developed into pneumonia, is said to be in stable condition after experiencing a brief breathing crisis on Friday.

The Vatican confirmed on Monday morning that the Pope had rested well overnight, with no new complications reported. This update comes after a statement from the Holy See on Sunday evening, reassuring the public that the pontiff’s condition remained stable.

Although Pope Francis had required non-invasive mechanical ventilation, using a mask for support on Friday and Saturday, he no longer needs this treatment, though he continues to receive high-flow oxygen therapy. The Vatican confirmed that he did not have a fever and was able to participate in Mass on Sunday morning. The rest of his day was spent alternating between rest and prayer.

A Vatican source noted that after 48 hours since the Friday crisis, there had been no further complications, but cautioned that “the prognosis remains reserved” due to the complexity of his condition.

Pope Francis also received visitors on Sunday, including Italian Cardinal Pietro Parolin, the Vatican’s Secretary of State, and Venezuelan Archbishop Edgar Peña Parra, a senior Vatican official. Despite his health challenges, the Pope expressed his gratitude for the prayers and support of the faithful.

In his absence from the traditional Angelus prayer for the third consecutive Sunday, the Vatican released a written message from the Pope. In it, he thanked his followers, saying, “I feel all your affection and closeness and, at this particular time, I feel as if I am ‘carried’ and supported by all God’s people. Thank you all.”

Pope Francis, born Jorge Bergoglio, has been undergoing treatment in a special suite on the 10th floor of the Gemelli Hospital, which is reserved for pontiffs. While the situation remains serious, the Pope’s positive response to treatment and the ongoing prayers of millions of Catholics around the world continue to inspire hope for his recovery.