Pope Francis, 88, is recovering at Rome’s Gemelli hospital, where he is being treated for a respiratory tract infection. According to Italian media reports, the pontiff had a peaceful night on Saturday as he continues to rest on medical advice.
The Vatican confirmed that Pope Francis would not appear in public on Sunday to deliver his traditional weekly prayer with pilgrims. The decision was made to allow him to rest and aid his recovery from bronchitis, which he has been battling for over a week.
During a mass at St. Peter’s Basilica on Sunday, Cardinal Jose Tolentino de Mendonca led prayers for the pope’s health, expressing gratitude for his leadership and guidance. The mass, dedicated to honoring artists in the Catholic Church’s Holy Year, was conducted in the absence of the pontiff.
A statement from the Vatican on Saturday evening noted that the pope’s treatment was “slightly modified” following new microbiological findings. It also highlighted some improvement in his health based on recent laboratory tests.
On Saturday night, Pope Francis briefly watched the main evening news on Italy’s RAI TV before enjoying a restful night, according to reports from Italy’s ANSA news agency.
The Vatican has assured the public that the pope will remain in the hospital as long as necessary for his recovery.
This latest health scare follows several instances of illness over the past two years, including influenza.
Pope Francis, who has served as pontiff since 2013, remains under close medical observation, with the global Catholic community praying for his swift recovery.
