Vatican Shares Update on Critically Ill Pope Francis

The Vatican has provided a brief update on Pope Francis, who remains in critical condition while being treated at Rome’s Gemelli Hospital for double pneumonia. At 88 years old, the pontiff is currently enduring his longest hospital stay since he assumed the papacy 12 years ago, with officials noting that he had a tranquil night and is resting.

Further details from the Holy See disclosed that although the pope’s state has been consistently critical over recent days, his overall condition is considered stable with no additional respiratory issues. A follow-up CAT scan was performed to assess the lung infection, but specific findings were not released.

Despite the serious nature of his infection—a complication arising from multiple microorganisms—Pope Francis resumed some of his routine activities. After receiving the Eucharist in the morning, he was well enough to engage in discussions with the Vatican secretary of state, during which he approved decrees concerning the canonization process for two new saints and recognized five individuals for beatification.

The Pope’s frail health is compounded by his past medical history, which includes lung complications stemming from previous bouts of pleurisy and surgeries on his lung, as well as intestinal procedures conducted in 2021 and 2023. A forthcoming update on his condition is expected to be released soon.