Pope Francis, 88, remains hospitalized in Rome for a third consecutive day due to a respiratory tract infection. His treatment continues, with doctors advising complete rest and unable to deliver his regular Sunday prayer.
The Vatican confirmed that Francis is in a stable condition but has been advised by his medical team to fully recover before resuming his duties. The pope spent the afternoon alternating between resting and reading, according to a statement from the Vatican.
Francis’s past health issues include lung infections, pleurisy, and part of one lung being removed due to an infection. He has had several instances of influenza and other illnesses over the past two years.
The Jubilee Year, which began in 2022, continues until January 6, 2026, and it is believed that Francis’s prolonged hospital stay may be beneficial for his recovery during this busy period.
As Francis remains hospitalized, Catholics around the world are offering their prayers and support. A special prayer issued by the Vatican was led by Cardinal Jose Tolentino de Mendonca at a mass in St Peter’s Basilica, with messages of support and well-wishes sent to the pope from pilgrims and officials alike.
The head of an Italian bishops’ conference department suggested that Francis’s hospital stay may be beneficial for his recovery during the Jubilee period. “These days, it is best that he remains, so to speak, confined to the dedicated hospital ward to fully regain his strength and receive care in a setting of complete safety,” Massimo Angelelli said.
The Colombian pilgrim Patricia Afanador expressed her concern for Francis’s health but emphasized the importance of his recovery. “It’s sad, but it is more important that he gets better,” she said.
Source: https://www.reuters.com/world/europe/pope-has-second-peaceful-night-hospital-ansa-2025-02-16