Pope Francis had ‘peaceful night’ in hospital, will skip Sunday noon blessing while continuing recovery

Pope Francis’ Stable Condition and Ongoing Recovery
Pope Francis is currently in a stable condition as he continues his recovery from double pneumonia. The Vatican has reported that he is experiencing a peaceful period of rest, with his respiratory physiotherapy alternating between non-invasive mechanical ventilation and high-flow oxygenation. Despite the challenges posed by pneumonia, Francis has shown positive signs, including the absence of fever and normal white blood cell levels, indicating that his body is no longer actively fighting an infection. These indicators suggest that Francis is progressing well, though his doctors remain cautious and have described his prognosis as "guarded," meaning he is still not out of danger.

Medical Update and Prognosis
Francis’ medical team has provided detailed updates on his treatment and progress. He is receiving a combination of non-invasive mechanical ventilation and high-flow supplemental oxygen, with his body responding well to the therapy. The Vatican noted that Francis has been able to spend time without the ventilator, relying solely on oxygen, and has shown a "good response" in terms of gas exchange—a critical measure of how well his lungs are functioning. While these updates are encouraging, the fact that his prognosis remains guarded underscores the seriousness of his condition and the need for continued caution.

Spiritual Strength and Daily Routine
Despite his health challenges, Francis has managed to maintain a sense of normalcy and spirituality. On Saturday, he spent 20 minutes in his private chapel, a testament to his enduring faith and resilience. The Vatican also reported that he is eating and drinking, and continues to engage in respiratory physiotherapy as part of his recovery process. These small but significant acts highlight Francis’ determination to continue his routine and stay connected to his spiritual practices, even as he navigates a difficult recovery.

Impact on Vatican Events
Francis’ health has inevitably impacted Vatican events, particularly during this Holy Year. For the third consecutive weekend, he was unable to deliver the Angelus prayer, a traditional noon blessing from the Vatican. Instead, the Vatican distributed the prepared text of his remarks, ensuring that his message still reached the faithful. Additionally, Francis was scheduled to preside over a Holy Year audience for healthcare workers from the Gemelli hospital, but his hospitalization prevented him from attending. Despite his absence, the staff of Gemelli hospital proceeded with their planned pilgrimage, a powerful reminder of the community’s resilience and dedication to their work.

The Pope’s Health History and Context
Francis’ current health struggles are part of a broader narrative of his lifelong challenges with respiratory issues. At the age of 21, he had part of one lung removed due to an infection, leaving him with compromised lung function. This history makes his current battle with pneumonia particularly concerning. His hospitalization began on February 14 after a bout of bronchitis escalated into double pneumonia, a condition that complicates his existing lung disease. The timing of his illness is also poignant, as it coincides with the Vatican’s Holy Year—a time of pilgrimage and spiritual renewal—drawing thousands of faithful to Rome and other sacred sites like Assisi.

Global Prayers and Solidarity
As news of Francis’ condition spread, people around the world have come together to offer prayers and expressions of solidarity. The Vatican’s updates have been met with a mix of hope and concern, reflecting the deep affection that many hold for the Pope. JD Vance, for instance, shared a heartfelt message wishing Francis strength during his recovery. The outpouring of support highlights Francis’ role not only as a spiritual leader but also as a unifying figure who inspires compassion and hope. As the Pope continues his recovery, the global community remains united in prayer, hoping for his full restoration to health and his return to his ministry.