Pope Francis, who is currently hospitalized with pneumonia, “rested well” overnight while wearing an oxygen mask, the Vatican reported on Wednesday. However, his absence at the start of the Lenten season has raised concerns about the health of the 88-year-old pontiff.
The pope has experienced troubling respiratory issues since being admitted to Rome’s Gemelli Hospital on February 14 due to breathing difficulties. According to the Vatican’s morning medical update, Francis had a restful night despite wearing an oxygen mask, and his prognosis remains “reserved.”
On Tuesday, the Vatican reported that the pope had a calm day, showing no signs of fever, remaining alert, and cooperating with his treatment. However, his continued use of an oxygen mask and his ongoing health condition have sparked further concern.
In light of his condition, Pope Francis will not lead the Ash Wednesday services, which mark the beginning of Lent — the 40-day period leading up to Easter when Christians observe fasting and penance. The pope typically presides over the major Ash Wednesday Mass, but in his absence, Italian Cardinal Angelo de Donatis will lead the service, which will take place at 1600 GMT, preceded by a procession on Rome’s Aventine Hill.
This is not the first time the pope has missed Ash Wednesday celebrations; in 2022, he was absent due to severe knee pain, one of several health issues he has faced since becoming pope in 2013.
As speculation about his health continues, particularly among critics who have questioned whether he may resign, the pope has not been seen in public for nearly three weeks. The last photographs of him were taken during private audiences just hours before his hospitalization.
AFP
