Pope Francis remains in critical but stable condition, according to Vatican spokesperson Matteo Bruni. Despite his health concerns, the 88-year-old pontiff is not bedridden and has not experienced any severe respiratory episodes. He underwent a scheduled CT scan to monitor his pneumonia.
Bruni stated that while the pope’s condition remains serious, his prognosis is still uncertain. On Tuesday morning, Francis received the Eucharist before resuming his work. The Vatican reported that he had rested well overnight, though his condition has not improved since the previous day.
The pope was hospitalized over a week ago in Rome for tests related to a respiratory infection, which was later diagnosed as pneumonia. Concerns over his health increased, though the Vatican reassured that his mild kidney issues are not alarming. His oxygen therapy has been slightly adjusted but continues.
On Monday, Francis was awake and in good spirits after receiving high-flow oxygen treatment over the weekend. By Tuesday evening, his oxygen levels remained unchanged. Due to the complexity of his condition, doctors have not yet provided a definitive prognosis.
The pope has continued some of his duties, including receiving the Eucharist and resuming work on Monday afternoon. That evening, he contacted the Parish Priest of Gaza, continuing his communication regarding the ongoing conflict in the region. However, he did not lead the weekly Angelus prayer on Sunday, marking only the third time he has missed it in his nearly 12-year papacy.
On Monday, he also met with two senior Vatican officials, Cardinal Parolin and Archbishop Peña Parra, marking his first known visits from church leadership since his hospitalization, aside from his secretaries. On Tuesday, he did not meet with anyone outside his immediate aides.
Faith leaders and worshippers worldwide have been praying for the pope’s recovery. His 93-year-old cousin, Carla Rabezzana, expressed deep concern for his health, saying the family is anxiously following updates.
Last week, the Vatican reported that Francis was responding positively to treatment. However, on Sunday, they noted mild kidney dysfunction, though it remains under control. Medical experts have reassured that this is not necessarily a serious development but acknowledged that his overall condition remains critical.
