Pope Francis Continues Recovery from Pneumonia, Sends Written Blessing from Hospital

Pope Francis, currently hospitalized in Rome’s Gemelli hospital, has continued his recovery from double pneumonia, offering a written blessing to the faithful on Sunday. The Vatican has confirmed that the Pontiff is resting comfortably after a peaceful night as he progresses in his recovery.

In his written address, Pope Francis expressed his ongoing connection to the faithful, stating, "I am still sending you these thoughts from the hospital." He has been receiving treatment since February 14th after a bout of bronchitis worsened and evolved into complex pneumonia affecting both lungs.

Reflecting on his experience, the Pope shared, "I feel in my heart the ‘blessing’ that is hidden within frailty, because it is precisely in these moments that we learn even more to trust in the Lord." He further expressed his gratitude for the opportunity to share in the experiences of those who are sick and suffering, saying, "At the same time, I thank God for giving me the opportunity to share in body and spirit the condition of so many sick and suffering people."

Pope Francis also acknowledged the outpouring of support he has received from around the world. "I would like to thank you for the prayers, which rise up to the Lord from the hearts of so many faithful from many parts of the world," he wrote. "I feel all your affection and closeness and, at this particular time, I feel as if I am ‘carried’ and supported by all God’s people."

Adding to the messages of support, JD Vance shared a special message to Pope Francis amid his breathing crisis, but specifics of the message were not provided in this article.

Concluding his blessing, Pope Francis assured the faithful of his prayers for them and for peace in the world. He emphasized the futility of war, particularly in his current condition, stating, "From here, war appears even more absurd." He urged prayer for countries experiencing conflict, including "tormented Ukraine, Palestine, Israel, Lebanon, Myanmar, Sudan and Kivu."

The Vatican provided updates on Pope Francis’ medical condition over the weekend. On Saturday, they reported that his condition "remained stable with respiratory physiotherapy alternating between non-invasive mechanical ventilation and long periods of supplemental high-flow oxygenation with a good response to gas exchange." The Pope had no fever or signs of elevated white blood cells, indicating that his body was not actively fighting an infection.

Doctors further indicated continued improvement, refraining from stating that he was in critical condition. This optimistic assessment followed a respiratory crisis the previous day, which necessitated the use of non-invasive mechanical ventilation.

Despite the positive signs, doctors remained cautious and maintained a guarded prognosis, acknowledging that he was not entirely out of danger. The Vatican reported that the Pope was eating and drinking, continuing his respiratory physiotherapy, and even spent 20 minutes in his private chapel.

Notably, the 88-year-old Pope demonstrated a "good response" in his gas exchange levels, even during periods when he was off the ventilator mask and relying solely on high-flow supplemental oxygen.

Due to his ongoing recovery, Pope Francis canceled his scheduled appearance to deliver the Angelus prayer on Sunday for the third consecutive week.

This hospitalization occurs during the Vatican’s Holy Year, which attracts pilgrims to Rome from all over the world. Pilgrims are engaging in traditional activities, such as walking through the Holy Door at St. Peter’s Basilica and making pilgrimages to Assisi, the birthplace of St. Francis, to pray at his home.

Pope Francis was originally scheduled to preside over a Holy Year audience in the Vatican’s auditorium for the staff of the Gemelli hospital and other healthcare workers on Saturday. Although he could not attend, the staff and workers proceeded with their planned pilgrimage.

The Pope has a history of lung issues, having had part of one lung removed as a young man. He was admitted to Gemelli hospital on February 14th after a bout of bronchitis worsened and developed into complex pneumonia in both lungs. The Vatican has previously stated that Pope Francis’ slight kidney insufficiency had receded as he battled pneumonia.

The article also mentions to "CLICK HERE TO GET THE FOX NEWS APP", although the link is not present. The Associated Press contributed to the information provided.