Pope Francis’ health has shown slight improvement but remains critical as he continues treatment for pneumonia at the Gemelli Clinic in Rome. Despite no acute respiratory issues, he requires supplemental oxygen and has experienced mild kidney function impairment. Unable to lead Sunday prayers for the second week, he has asked for prayers from followers. Speculation about his resignation has emerged, but church officials deem such discussions unnecessary, emphasizing his commitment to his papal role despite health challenges.
cov. /(dpa) The health status of Pope Francis has shown slight improvement, yet it still remains “critical.” This update was provided in a medical bulletin from the Gemelli Clinic in Rome on Sunday evening. The Pope has been hospitalized for pneumonia for the past ten days and has recently required multiple blood transfusions and oxygen support due to difficulty breathing.
The Roman University Hospital reported on Sunday evening that the 88-year-old Pontiff has not encountered any acute respiratory issues since Saturday night. He is awake and alert, even attending a mass, as noted by the clinic. However, he will continue to receive supplemental oxygen. Additionally, a mild impairment in kidney function has been detected.
Doctors maintain a “cautious prognosis” for the Pope’s recovery. From his hospital bed, Francis has requested prayers.
Missing Sunday Prayer for the Second Week
For the second consecutive week, Pope Francis was unable to lead the traditional Sunday prayer before the throngs of faithful gathered in St. Peter’s Square. Instead, a written message was distributed. In his note, the Argentine Pope, who has served for nearly twelve years, asked for prayers: “Pray for me.” His appeal was met with responses from believers worldwide during their Sunday worship.
Since mid-month, Francis has been receiving treatment at the Gemelli Clinic in western Rome. The second-oldest pope in history has faced respiratory issues since before Christmas, with doctors diagnosing pneumonia in both lungs caused by multiple pathogens. The medical team describes his condition as “complex,” and pneumonia is considered particularly perilous at his age.
Frequent Updates on His Condition
The clinic has confirmed that Pope Francis has requested transparency regarding his health. Updates are provided in writing twice daily. Additionally, a press conference held by the doctors on Friday revealed that the leader of 1.4 billion Catholics globally is “not out of danger.” A cardinal, who chose to remain anonymous, commented to “La Repubblica”: “Now we can only pray.”
It is widely believed that the Pope’s stay in the hospital may be extended, with some speculating he might not return home. He has not made any public appearances since his admission, as physicians have advised complete rest. Only his closest aides are permitted to visit him, with Italy’s Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni being one of the few visitors allowed.
Cardinals Address Resignation Speculation
In the meantime, discussions have emerged regarding the possibility of Francis resigning, akin to his German predecessor Benedict XVI. However, Cardinal Secretary of State Pietro Parolin characterized such speculation as “unnecessary.” The 70-year-old Italian is seen as a potential successor.
Francis has consistently dismissed rumors of resignation during previous health scares, asserting that the idea has never crossed his mind. He has indicated that he has prepared a signed resignation letter in the Vatican, but only in the event of incapacity due to illness. Currently, he relies heavily on a wheelchair for mobility.
Cardinal Gerhard Ludwig Müller, from Germany, also countered the speculation surrounding resignation. He stated, “A resignation is not an option,” emphasizing to “Il Messaggero” that one does not step down from the papal role lightly. He expressed skepticism regarding any papal resignation stemming from exhaustion or inability, as it undermines the principle of the Church’s visible unity.