Pope Francis, 88, is spending his fifth day in Rome’s Gemelli Hospital due to a respiratory infection, leading the Vatican to cancel his scheduled events for the upcoming weekend.
Initially admitted last Friday with bronchitis, his treatment plan has now been adjusted to address what doctors describe as a “complex” clinical condition.
Despite earlier plans to clear his schedule only until Wednesday, the Vatican later announced that a Saturday audience would no longer take place and that Sunday morning Mass would be led by another cleric.
Uncertainty Around Angelus Prayer
While the Vatican has confirmed some event cancellations, there has been no official word on whether Pope Francis will deliver the traditional Angelus prayer at noon on Sunday, a significant weekly moment for many Catholics.
He was unable to participate last weekend, and his ability to do so this time remains uncertain.
Maintaining Routine Amid Hospitalization
Despite his hospitalization, Pope Francis has kept parts of his daily routine intact.
On Tuesday morning, Vatican spokesman Matteo Bruni shared that the Pope started his day with breakfast and spent time reading newspapers, a regular habit of his. A medical update was expected later that evening.
Ongoing Health Struggles and Medical History
Francis, who has led the Catholic Church since 2013, has faced multiple health challenges in recent years.
He has undergone hernia and colon surgery since 2021 and relies on a wheelchair due to persistent knee pain.
His recent hospital admission followed noticeable difficulties in reading aloud during public appearances.
Support and Prayers from Followers
As news of his hospitalization spread, Catholics and tourists gathered in Saint Peter’s Square to express their prayers and well-wishes for the Pope’s recovery.
Birgit Jungreuthmayer, a visitor from Austria, voiced confidence in the medical team treating Francis, stating, “I trust in their expertise and hope for the best.”
Medical Updates and Treatment Adjustments
On Monday, the Vatican confirmed that Pope Francis had been diagnosed with a polymicrobial respiratory infection, necessitating a change in his treatment plan.
While his condition remained stable, officials emphasized that his hospitalization was essential for ongoing medical care.
The Vatican reassured the public that Francis was without fever and continuing with his prescribed treatment, though specific details were not disclosed.
A Busy Schedule Despite Health Issues
Even with recurring health concerns, Pope Francis has maintained an active role in leading the Church.
Just months ago, in September 2024, he completed an extensive four-nation tour across the Asia-Pacific region—the longest of his papacy.
Those close to him have noted that his recent hospital admission followed an exhausting two weeks of engagements, which reportedly left him physically weakened.
No Immediate Plans for Resignation
The Pope’s health has led to ongoing speculation about the possibility of his resignation, especially given the precedent set by his predecessor, Benedict XVI, who stepped down in 2013 due to declining health.
However, Francis has repeatedly stated that he does not currently see a reason to resign.
In a memoir published last year, he acknowledged that stepping down would only be considered in the event of a serious physical incapacity.
In a recent autobiography, he reflected on his health, stating, “The reality is, quite simply, that I am old. But I carry on.”
What Comes Next?
As Pope Francis continues to receive treatment, the Vatican is expected to provide further updates on his condition and schedule.
While his immediate engagements have been postponed or reassigned, his ability to resume public appearances remains uncertain.
For now, the world waits to see how his health progresses and what adjustments, if any, will be made to his future commitments.
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