The Vatican confirmed that Pope Francis is “resting” following a “peaceful night” on Thursday. He is continuing his recovery after nearly three weeks in the hospital battling pneumonia.
The 88-year-old pontiff, who was hospitalized on February 14 at Rome’s Gemelli Hospital due to breathing difficulties, has been receiving treatment for pneumonia in both lungs. According to the Holy See, he used an oxygen mask overnight for the third time to assist with breathing.
While Pope Francis missed the official Ash Wednesday services in Rome marking the start of Lent, he participated in a private blessing from his suite on the 10th floor of Gemelli Hospital. Christians worldwide, including in his native Argentina, have been praying for the Pope’s recovery as he remains hospitalized.
Since his hospitalization, the Pope has not appeared in public, and no photos have been released by the Vatican. However, he has continued to share written messages during his time in recovery.
The global Catholic community, which numbers nearly 1.4 billion, remains hopeful for Pope Francis’ swift recovery.
