VATICAN CITY (AP) — Pope Francis remotely participated in the Vatican’s spiritual retreat on Tuesday after receiving positive updates from his doctors. They have upgraded his prognosis, stating that he is no longer in immediate danger of death due to the double pneumonia that has kept him hospitalized for nearly a month – the most serious health threat during his 12-year papacy. While the 88-year-old pope still has a way to go, doctors are keeping a watchful eye on him and have decided to continue his hospitalization for a few more days for ongoing treatment and possibly rehabilitation. Despite using supplemental oxygen and a ventilation mask, Francis remains stable and has shown improvement in recent days.
On Tuesday, the Vatican reported that Francis was resuming his physical and respiratory therapy after a peaceful night. Encouragingly, he also participated in the spiritual retreat via videoconference for the third day and spent time in prayer in his private chapel. This news brought joy to those like Sister Maria Letizia Salazar, who had been praying for Francis outside the Gemelli hospital.
This week holds significance for Francis as it marks the anniversaries of his entry into the Jesuit religious order’s novitiate and his election as pope. While the doctors have upgraded his prognosis from “guarded,” they remain cautious given Francis’ health history, the severity of his recent infection, and the complexities of his condition.
Despite his health challenges, Francis has remained engaged, even staying updated on events in his native Argentina and expressing his condolences to those affected by recent floods. Additionally, a Vatican cardinal close to Francis spoke out to dispel some false media reports that had circulated during the pope’s absence.
The Vatican remains a hub of speculation, but recent developments have brought hope and optimism for the pope’s recovery.
Speculation surrounding Francis’ health and discussions about conclaves persist, despite the fact that Francis is alive and actively leading. Czerny’s need to defend one of Francis’ associates indicates that rumors and political maneuvering in Francis’ absence have become concerning. This article is supported by the collaboration between The Conversation US and the Associated Press, with funding from Lilly Endowment Inc. The AP has full responsibility for the content provided.
