Pope Francis Joins Vatican Retreat via Video While Recovering in Hospital/ Newslooks/ WASHINGTON/ J. Mansour/ Morning Edition/ Pope Francis is recovering from double pneumonia at Rome’s Gemelli hospital but continues to lead Vatican affairs remotely. On Monday, he followed the Vatican’s Lenten spiritual retreat via videoconference, though attendees could not see or hear him. Doctors report his condition is stable, with no fever or respiratory crises, but his prognosis remains “guarded”. As March 13 marks his 12th anniversary as pope, speculation about his future grows, though Francis has reaffirmed his commitment to serving for life. Despite his hospitalization, he continues to meet with Vatican officials and oversee Church operations.
Pope Francis’ Health Update: Quick Looks
- Pope Francis follows Vatican’s spiritual retreat remotely from Gemelli hospital in Rome.
- 88-year-old pope is recovering from double pneumonia, using oxygen therapy and noninvasive ventilation.
- Doctors report his condition is stable, but prognosis remains “guarded” as he continues treatment.
- Francis participated in Monday’s retreat session, listening to Rev. Roberto Pasolini’s meditation on eternal life.
- The pope remains in charge, holding meetings with Vatican officials while hospitalized.
- March 13 marks the 12th anniversary of his papacy, the first with a sitting pope hospitalized.
- Francis has reiterated he has no plans to resign, despite speculation about his health.
Deep Look: Pope Francis Follows Vatican Retreat Remotely as He Recovers from Pneumonia
Pope Participates in Vatican Retreat via Video From Hospital
Pope Francis continues to recover from double pneumonia at Rome’s Gemelli hospital, but he remains actively engaged in Vatican affairs. On Monday, the 88-year-old pope followed the Vatican’s annual spiritual retreat via videoconference, a key event marking the beginning of Lent.
While Francis could see and hear the retreat leader, Rev. Roberto Pasolini, the attending bishops, priests, and cardinals could not see or hear him. The retreat’s theme, “The hope of eternal life,” was set before Francis’ hospitalization, but it has taken on new significance amid concerns about his long-term health.
Medical Update: Pope Stable but Not Out of Danger
The Vatican provided an update on Monday, stating that Francis has been stable for over a week:
- No fever or respiratory crises reported.
- Good oxygen levels in his blood, showing positive response to therapy.
- Using nasal oxygen support during the day and a ventilation mask at night.
Despite his improving condition, doctors are keeping his prognosis “guarded”, meaning he is not fully in the clear. A further medical update is expected later Monday.
12th Anniversary of Pope Francis’ Papacy
This Thursday, March 13, marks 12 years since Francis became pope, the first time a sitting pope has observed this milestone while hospitalized.
- Elected in 2013 as the first Jesuit pope and first from Latin America.
- Succeeded Pope Benedict XVI, who resigned, citing health concerns.
- Has faced speculation about retirement, but has reaffirmed his commitment to serving for life.
While Francis once praised Benedict’s resignation as courageous, he recently stated that he believes “the job of pope is for life” and has no plans to step down.
Vatican Governance Continues From Hospital
Despite his extended hospital stay, Francis remains fully in charge of Vatican affairs.
- On Sunday, he held a meeting with Cardinal Pietro Parolin and Archbishop Edgar Peña Parra, his chief of staff.
- The pope has continued to govern the Church through routine meetings and briefings.
“His ability to continue leading despite his health challenges demonstrates his resilience,” said a Vatican spokesperson.
As Francis recovers from pneumonia, speculation about his future and the longevity of his papacy continues. However, for now, he remains dedicated to his role and the mission of the Church.
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