The Vatican reported on Wednesday that Pope Francis, 88, had a peaceful night at Rome’s Gemelli hospital after tests confirmed he had developed pneumonia in both lungs. This news added a further complication to his health, prompting worries about his ability to combat the infection.
According to Vatican spokesman Matteo Bruni, the pontiff woke up feeling well and had breakfast after spending his fifth night at the hospital. Despite having undergone surgery to remove a portion of his right lung in the past, Francis remained in good spirits and expressed gratitude for the prayers offered for his recovery.
In response to the situation, the vicar for Rome urged the faithful to dedicate an hour of silent prayer for the pope before evening vespers services. Even though his weekly general audience was canceled, pilgrims still gathered at St. Peter’s Square to pray for his health.
Francis was admitted to the hospital last Friday due to worsening bronchitis, which was later diagnosed as a polymicrobial respiratory tract infection. The recent chest CT scan revealed bilateral pneumonia on top of asthmatic bronchitis, requiring treatment with cortisone and antibiotics.
The Vatican has yet to provide updates on the pope’s response to treatment, but has confirmed that he is breathing independently and has maintained good heart function. With his susceptibility to complications due to his age, lack of physical activity, and limited mobility, the medical team continues to monitor his progress closely.
Y required several changes in his drug regimen, which would necessitate an “adequate” stay. Pilgrimages are ongoing despite the pope’s canceled engagements. Despite the somewhat discouraging updates on Francis’ health, a rainbow graced the skies over the Gemelli hospital on Tuesday afternoon. Children in the hospital’s oncology ward presented Francis with heartfelt get-well drawings and cards. Meanwhile, at the Vatican on Wednesday, pilgrimages for the Holy Year persisted, with groups of devoted individuals crossing the Holy Door of St. Peter’s Basilica on a chilly, overcast day.
“We are filled with joy to be here, but our hearts are heavy for the pope’s illness,” expressed Amparo Alcala’, leading a large group of pilgrims from Valencia, Spain. “He is accomplishing remarkable deeds, particularly in his efforts for women in the church, which brings us immense joy. We pray earnestly for his recovery and hope that he may return, should it be in accordance with God’s will.”
A contingent of South Korean pilgrims dressed in traditional attire had originally planned to attend Francis’ weekly Wednesday general audience and showcase their national dress, a common practice during the pope’s customary gatherings. Despite the cancellation, they decided to proceed with their visit.
“The recent Lunar New Year prompted us to uphold our cultural tradition and formally pay our respects before him,” shared Junhee Christina Kim, a pilgrim from Seoul, South Korea. “We could not let this unique opportunity pass, so we carried on with our plans to be at the Vatican in our traditional garb.”
___AP Medical Writer Maria Cheng contributed from London.___
Associated Press religion coverage is made possible through the AP’s partnership with The Conversation US, supported by funding from Lilly Endowment Inc. The AP takes full responsibility for the content provided.
