Vatican City – Pope Francis has called on Catholics and people around the world to continue praying for him as he remains hospitalized at Gemelli Hospital in Rome for treatment.
In a statement released by the Holy See, the 88-year-old Pontiff expressed gratitude to the medical team attending to him and emphasized the importance of rest in his recovery process.
“On my part, I am confidently continuing my hospitalization at the Gemelli Hospital, carrying on with the necessary treatment; and rest is also part of the therapy! I sincerely thank the doctors and health workers of this hospital for the attention they are showing me and the dedication with which they carry out their service among the sick,” Pope Francis wrote.
Health Concerns and Treatment
Doctors have diagnosed the Pope with pneumonia in both lungs, as well as bacterial, viral, and fungal infections. According to medical reports, he has been receiving supplemental oxygen when necessary and is responding to drug therapy.
However, doctors have advised “absolute rest,” leading to the cancellation of several public events. Vatican officials have stated that the main concern remains the risk of sepsis, a potentially life-threatening complication of pneumonia.
This is not the first time Pope Francis has faced health challenges. In recent years, he has been hospitalized multiple times, including a 2021 surgery for a narrowing of his large intestine and a 2023 hospitalization for bronchitis. He also has a history of chronic bronchitis and other respiratory conditions.
Pope Issues Angelus Statement, Calls for Peace in Ukraine
Despite his health condition, the Vatican released an Angelus statement from Pope Francis on Sunday. The Pontiff acknowledged the upcoming third anniversary of the war in Ukraine and expressed gratitude for the outpouring of support he has received during his hospital stay.
Pope Francis, who has led the Catholic Church for 12 years since his election in 2013, continues to be a vocal advocate for global peace and humanitarian efforts.
The Vatican has assured the public that updates on his health will be provided regularly, as the world watches and prays for his swift recovery.
