Pope Francis’ health continues to improve, according to the Vatican, as he makes steady progress in his recovery from double pneumonia and chronic bronchitis.
Pope Francis’ Health ‘Improving,’ Vatican Says
Update on the Pontiff’s Condition
The Vatican has released its first photograph of Pope Francis since he entered hospital 31 days ago, showing the pontiff in the chapel of his suite of rooms at Rome’s Gemelli hospital. The photo was taken on March 16, and it appears that the pope’s health continues to improve.
Born Jorge Mario Bergoglio, Pope Francis is the first Jesuit to hold the office.
He was elected on March 13, 2013, succeeding Benedict XVI.
Prior to his papacy, he served as Archbishop of Buenos Aires from 1998 to 2013.
Known for his humility and commitment to social justice, Pope Francis has focused on issues such as poverty, climate change, and the role of women in the Church.
He has also been a vocal advocate for interfaith dialogue and reconciliation.
According to a statement from the Vatican press office, Pope Francis concelebrated Mass in the chapel, further indicating that his clinical conditions have remained stable. The bulletin noted that while he is still receiving high-flow oxygen therapy through nasal tubes during the day, doctors are decreasing his mechanical oxygen supply during the night.
Progress in Treatment
The report from the pope’s medical team confirms that Francis’ most recent chest X-rays confirmed that he is continuing to heal from double pneumonia. Although the pope’s doctors announced earlier this week that he was no longer in imminent danger, he still has pneumonia and chronic bronchitis, resulting in a ‘complex’ medical picture.
Pope Francis continues both respiratory and physical therapy, and the medical bulletin noted that these therapies are showing further gradual improvements. The Vatican has refused to speculate about a timeline for his release.
Pope Francis has been open about his various health issues over the years.
In 2019, he underwent surgery to remove a 2.5-centimeter (1-inch) 'lung mass'.
He also suffers from sciatica and has used a cane for walking due to knee pain.
Additionally, Pope Francis has been treated for a number of other conditions, including bronchitis and a 'benign kidney tumor'.
Despite these health concerns, he continues to lead the Catholic Church with energy and dedication.
Synod on Synodality Progress
In a separate development, Pope Francis approved a three-year plan focused on implementing the reforms initiated by his recent synod on synodality. The announcement is being widely viewed as a strong signal that Francis intends to continue as pope, despite speculation of a potential resignation following his prolonged hospitalization.
The Synod on Synodality is a two-year process initiated by the Catholic Church to promote a deeper sense of community and collaboration among its members.
The synod aims to foster a culture of listening, dialogue, and mutual respect.
It involves a global consultation with Catholics from all walks of life, including laity, clergy, and religious.
The process began in 2021 and is expected to conclude in 2023.
Key themes include the role of women in the Church, the importance of young people's participation, and the need for greater transparency and accountability.
The new timeline includes diocesan and continental evaluation stages that will culminate in a Vatican assembly in October 2028. Cardinal Mario Grech, secretary general of the Synod of Bishops, stated that the Holy Father hopes this phase receives particular attention so that synodality is increasingly understood and lived as an essential dimension of the ordinary life of local Churches and the entire Church.
Support for the Pope’s Recovery
In Rome, a Mass was celebrated in the Pauline Chapel of the Apostolic Palace to pray for the pope’s recovery. Italian Cardinal Pietro Parolin, Vatican secretary of state, delivered the homily, saying ‘We gather in prayer this morning for the intention of the Holy Father’s health, that he may recover and return soon among us.‘
The Italian postal service has reported a surge in letters being sent to the pope and the Vatican since his hospitalization.
