Pope Francis health: Vatican issues Friday morning update

Pope Francis has reached the two-week mark in his recovery from pneumonia, with doctors indicating that he has passed the most critical phase of the infection.

However, medical professionals remain cautious, stating that additional days of clinical stability are required before declaring him fully out of danger.

Why It Matters

While Vatican officials have emphasized that Pope Francis remains actively engaged in leadership duties, his ongoing health struggles have fueled speculation about potential future decisions regarding his role, particularly with key events such as Holy Week and Easter approaching.

What to Know

The Vatican reported on Friday that the 88-year-old pontiff continues to recover at Rome’s Gemelli Hospital. “As in past days, the night was tranquil, and the pope now is resting,” the statement read.

Doctors noted that Francis’ condition is improving, as he has been alternating between high-flow supplemental oxygen and a mask, suggesting better respiratory function.

He has also resumed limited activity, praying in the chapel of the private apartment on the tenth floor of the hospital, while continuing respiratory physiotherapy and light work duties. Despite his progress, Vatican officials have not provided a definitive timeline for his release, emphasizing that further medical observation is necessary given the complexity of his condition.

Francis was admitted to the hospital on February 14 after experiencing worsening symptoms of bronchitis. Over the past weekend, concerns grew as reports surfaced of a respiratory crisis and kidney issues. However, gradual improvements in his condition have quieted speculation about an imminent resignation or papal conclave.

Meanwhile, supporters around the world have continued to offer prayers for the pope’s recovery.

What People Are Saying

Araceli Gutiérrez, who joined a vigil in Mexico City on Thursday, said: “He is like part of the family. That’s why we feel so concerned for him.”

María Teresa Sánchez, a visitor from Colombia, expressed a personal connection to Francis, the first Latin American pope: “That’s like having a relative within the higher-ups, with God. He has done so much for religion; he’s such a humble person.”

In San Diego, California, Robert McElroy, archbishop-elect of Washington, said: “He is a man of joy and a man of deep prayer who works tirelessly and does so with a sense of humor…He is a man who listens and truly engages with other people and believes that others have something to teach him.”

What Happens Next

While his health appears to be stabilizing, Pope Francis’ immediate schedule remains uncertain. The Vatican has canceled a Holy Year audience scheduled for Saturday, and it is unclear whether he will deliver his traditional Sunday noon blessing for a third consecutive week.

With Ash Wednesday approaching next week, marking the start of Lent, concerns remain about whether Francis will be able to participate in Holy Week and Easter events. In past years, winter illnesses have forced him to scale back his involvement in outdoor services and processions.

Looking further ahead, the pope has significant events on his calendar, including the April 27 canonization of Carlo Acutis, who will be recognized as the first millennial and digital-era saint. Another key date is May 24, when Francis has been invited to Turkey by Orthodox leader Patriarch Bartholomew I to commemorate the 1,700th anniversary of the Council of Nicea. Though Francis previously expressed hope to attend, the Vatican has not confirmed whether he will be able to make the trip.

This article contains reporting from The Associated Press