Pope Francis, now in his fifth day of hospitalization at Rome’s Gemelli Hospital, began his Tuesday with his usual morning routine of having breakfast and reading newspapers. However, despite these normal activities, there is no clear indication of when he will be discharged, as the Vatican announced the cancellation of his weekend events.
The 88-year-old pontiff was admitted on Friday after being diagnosed with bronchitis, and the Vatican revealed on Monday that his treatment plan was being adjusted to address a more “complex” clinical situation. Initially, the Vatican had cleared his schedule through Wednesday, but now, the planned audience for Saturday has been canceled, and the pope has delegated Sunday’s mass to another cleric.
The Vatican also remained silent on the Angelus prayer, which the pope traditionally delivers at noon on Sundays. He missed this event last weekend, but it remains uncertain whether he will deliver it this Sunday.
Vatican spokesperson Matteo Bruni provided a brief update on Tuesday, stating that Pope Francis’ condition is stable and similar to previous days. He explained that the pope had a quiet morning, starting with breakfast before reading his usual newspapers. Bruni also mentioned that a medical update would be provided later in the evening.
The pope’s health has been a concern for some time. His hospital admission followed days of struggling to read his texts in public. This is not the first time the pontiff has faced health challenges. Since 2021, he has undergone multiple surgeries, including hernia and colon procedures, and he uses a wheelchair due to knee pain.
As news of his hospitalization spreads, many pilgrims in Saint Peter’s Square have expressed their support, praying for the pope’s swift recovery. “I trust in the medical treatment of the hospital,” said Birgit Jungreuthmayer, a 48-year-old Austrian tourist. “I hope they will give their best.”
The Vatican confirmed that Pope Francis is being treated for a polymicrobial infection of the respiratory tract. This condition has led to further adjustments in his treatment, though the Vatican did not provide specifics about the medical details. On Monday evening, the Holy See reported that the pope was free of fever and continuing with his prescribed treatment, while also managing to complete some work.
Despite his current health struggles, Pope Francis remains one of the most active popes in recent history. He continues to follow a busy weekly schedule, including international trips, and he completed an extensive four-nation Asia-Pacific tour in September 2024, the longest of his papacy.
On Sunday, Pope Francis, who has been following mass from his hospital bed, sent a written message explaining his absence. “I would have liked to be among you, but I am here at the Gemelli hospital for treatment for my bronchitis,” he said.
Although Pope Francis has previously stated that he would consider stepping down only if his health seriously impeded his ability to fulfill his duties, he remains determined to continue with his papacy. In his memoir, he wrote that resigning is “a distant possibility” and that he would only do so if his physical condition warranted it. Even with his ailments, he remains committed to his role, saying, “I carry on.”
As the pope continues his treatment, many are hopeful for his swift recovery, with the hope that he will soon return to his active role in leading the Catholic Church.
