Pope Francis Remains in Hospital as Vatican Adjusts Treatment
Pope Francis began his Tuesday morning as usual, having breakfast and reading the newspapers, but his stay at Rome’s Gemelli hospital seems far from over. The Vatican has now canceled his upcoming weekend engagements, signaling that his recovery may take longer than initially expected.
The 88-year-old pontiff was admitted last Friday due to bronchitis. While initial updates suggested a stable condition, the Vatican later stated that his treatment was being adjusted due to a “complex” clinical picture.
Vatican Adjusts Pope’s Schedule
At first, his official schedule was cleared only until Wednesday, but the Vatican has since confirmed that a planned audience on Saturday has been canceled. Additionally, the Pope will not be presiding over Sunday morning Mass, delegating the responsibility to another cleric. However, there is no confirmation yet regarding his usual Angelus prayer at noon.
Vatican spokesman Matteo Bruni provided an update on Tuesday, stating that Pope Francis’ condition remains consistent with previous days. “He woke up, had breakfast, and spent time reading the newspapers, as he regularly does,” Bruni shared, adding that another medical update would follow later in the evening.
Prayers for Pope’s Recovery
As Pope Francis continues his treatment, Catholics around the world have been praying for his recovery. In Saint Peter’s Square, pilgrims and tourists expressed their support.
“I hope he gets better soon,” said Birgit Jungreuthmayer, an Austrian visitor. “I trust in the doctors and believe they are doing their best.”
On Monday, Vatican officials confirmed that tests had identified a respiratory infection requiring further medical attention. “All examinations point to a complex clinical situation that necessitates continued hospital care,” they stated.
Despite ongoing treatment, the Pope has reportedly been keeping up with some of his responsibilities. He remains deeply moved by the overwhelming messages of support he has received from well-wishers worldwide.
A Pope Who Keeps Going
Even with recurring health challenges, Pope Francis has maintained an active schedule. Just last September, he completed an extensive tour of four nations across the Asia-Pacific region.
A source close to the Vatican mentioned that the Pope had been especially active in the weeks leading up to his hospitalization. “He was quite busy and seemed fatigued, but there is no serious cause for alarm,” the source shared.
Last Sunday, Pope Francis followed Mass from his hospital room and even sent a written address for the Angelus. “I would have loved to be with you, but as you know, I am here at Gemelli hospital receiving treatment for bronchitis,” he wrote.
While he has acknowledged that health concerns come with age, Pope Francis has not indicated any plans to step down. Unlike his predecessor, Benedict XVI, who resigned in 2013 due to declining health, Francis has stated that resignation remains only a distant possibility.
In a memoir published last year, he emphasized that he has no immediate reason to consider stepping down. More recently, he reaffirmed this stance in an autobiography, stating: “The reality is simple—I am old, but I carry on.”
