Pope Francis continues to recover at his residence in the Casa Santa Marta, showing clinical improvements and good spirits. The Holy See Press Office reported on Friday that the Pope’s condition has shown slight gains in respiratory, mobility, and voice-related areas, as well as improved blood test results.
The 79-year-old leader is undergoing treatment and physical therapy to address his polymicrobial infection, which resulted in bilateral pneumonia. He has been receiving less supplemental oxygen and can now go extended periods without it during the day.
Despite the ongoing recovery process, Pope Francis remains active, participating in work activities and meeting with officials from the Roman Curia. Recent visitors included Archbishop Edgar Peña Parra, Archbishop Paul Richard Gallagher, and other high-ranking officials.
The Press Office cautioned that it is too early to discuss the Pope’s participation in Holy Week liturgies, citing weather conditions as a factor. However, for Palm Sunday, Cardinal Leonardo Sandri has been chosen as the Pope’s delegate to preside over the Mass.
Recent outings, including a surprise visit to St. Peter’s Basilica and a private audience with King Charles III and Queen Camilla, have also shown the Pope’s continued recovery progress. His brief appearance on stage after a Sunday Mass marked his first public appearance in the Vatican since leaving the hospital.
The next update on the Pope’s condition is expected on April 15.
Source: https://www.vaticannews.va/en/pope/news/2025-04/pope-shows-ongoing-improvement-during-convalescence.html