Following a hospitalization for lung issues, Pope Francis is gradually recovering while remaining focused on his duties.
Pope Francis Shows Steady Recovery After Hospitalization, Vatican Reports
Pope Francis Shows Steady Recovery After Hospitalization, Vatican Reports
The pontiff continues to show signs of improvement, fostering hope among his supporters.
Pope Francis's health has been on the mend since his release one week ago from a lengthy hospital stay, the Vatican announced on April 1, 2025. After facing serious complications during a 38-day treatment at Policlinico A. Gemelli in Rome for pneumonia and other infections, the pope was discharged on March 23 and returned to his residence at the Vatican guesthouse.
According to the Vatican's latest update, the pope's blood tests have returned to normal levels, and recent lung X-rays indicate “slight improvement.” While still requiring daily oxygen support, he can now manage without it for short periods. Physical and respiratory therapies are also yielding positive results, contributing to better mobility and an enhanced voice.
Since his departure from the hospital, Francis has refrained from public appearances, having only greeted supporters from a balcony on the day he was discharged. The 88-year-old pontiff's clearly weakened state during that encounter starkly illustrated the demands of his recent health challenges. Doctors emphasized the necessity of resting for a minimum of two months.
The Vatican disclosed on Tuesday that Francis has remained solitary in the guesthouse but continues to engage in daily Mass with fellow priests and dedicates time to his work at his desk. In the past week, he has completed important tasks such as approving new saints, including Venezuela's first female saint and the first saint from Papua New Guinea. He has also offered prayers for victims of a recent earthquake in Southeast Asia.
Reflecting on his health journey, Francis used his traditional Angelus prayer to connect his personal struggles with the broader Lenten experience, stating, “I too am experiencing it this way, in my soul and in my body,” urging followers to cultivate a sense of healing during the Lenten season.
According to the Vatican's latest update, the pope's blood tests have returned to normal levels, and recent lung X-rays indicate “slight improvement.” While still requiring daily oxygen support, he can now manage without it for short periods. Physical and respiratory therapies are also yielding positive results, contributing to better mobility and an enhanced voice.
Since his departure from the hospital, Francis has refrained from public appearances, having only greeted supporters from a balcony on the day he was discharged. The 88-year-old pontiff's clearly weakened state during that encounter starkly illustrated the demands of his recent health challenges. Doctors emphasized the necessity of resting for a minimum of two months.
The Vatican disclosed on Tuesday that Francis has remained solitary in the guesthouse but continues to engage in daily Mass with fellow priests and dedicates time to his work at his desk. In the past week, he has completed important tasks such as approving new saints, including Venezuela's first female saint and the first saint from Papua New Guinea. He has also offered prayers for victims of a recent earthquake in Southeast Asia.
Reflecting on his health journey, Francis used his traditional Angelus prayer to connect his personal struggles with the broader Lenten experience, stating, “I too am experiencing it this way, in my soul and in my body,” urging followers to cultivate a sense of healing during the Lenten season.
