Pope Francis Shows Slight Improvement Despite Critical Hospital Condition

The Vatican announced that while Pope Francis remains in critical condition following his battle with pneumonia affecting both lungs, there are tentative signs of improvement. Recent laboratory tests have shown slight progress, and the 88-year-old pontiff has managed to engage in some work activities, such as calling a parish priest in Gaza—a community he has supported since the onset of regional conflicts.

Hospitalized at Rome’s Gemelli hospital since February 14, the pope's condition has been described as precarious due to his age, pre-existing lung issues, and his fragile overall health. However, doctors noted that he had not experienced any further respiratory crises since the previous Saturday, and adjustments in his oxygen therapy have reflected a minor improvement. While a slight kidney insufficiency was observed, medical experts have not expressed immediate concern, though his overall prognosis remains guarded.

In a gesture of resilience, Pope Francis received the Eucharist on Monday morning and continued with his work in the afternoon by reading and signing documents. This ongoing activity coincided with a more positive tone in the Vatican’s updates, even while the environment at the Gemelli hospital remained poignantly somber.

Simultaneously, Cardinal Pietro Parolin led a solemn evening recitation of the Rosary in St. Peter’s Square, calling on people worldwide to join in prayer for the pope’s swift recovery. The scene evoked memories of past occasions when the global community rallied around ailing leaders, as prayers and heartfelt hopes surged from every corner.

Adding a personal touch to his outreach, Francis connected with the community in Gaza by speaking with the local parish priest—a relationship that has been maintained through daily communications and video messages during these challenging times. Despite the gravity of his illness, those close to him have observed that he remains in good spirits, experiencing no significant pain and continuing his daily engagements as best as his condition allows.