Pope Francis Stable After Respiratory Crisis, Vatican Says \ Newslooks \ Washington DC \ Mary Sidiqi \ Evening Edition \ Pope Francis remains in stable condition after experiencing two respiratory crises, requiring oxygen support and respiratory therapy as he battles double pneumonia. The 88-year-old pope, who has chronic lung disease, will continue using a ventilation mask at night to aid breathing. As Lent begins without him, the Vatican adjusts plans, while prayers pour in from Argentina and beyond for his recovery.
Pope Francis’ Health Update: Quick Looks
- Pope Francis remains stable after experiencing two respiratory crises on Monday.
- The 88-year-old pope, who has chronic lung disease, will continue using a ventilation mask at night to aid breathing.
- Doctors extracted mucus from his lungs, and he is undergoing respiratory physiotherapy to improve lung function.
- Vatican plans for Lent without Francis, as a cardinal will lead Ash Wednesday services in his place.
- Catholic teachings on end-of-life care guide treatment decisions as Francis continues his longest hospitalization as pope.
Deep Look
Pope Francis remains in stable but guarded condition after experiencing two respiratory crises on Monday, requiring oxygen therapy and respiratory physiotherapy. The Vatican confirmed that doctors extracted a large amount of mucus from his lungs, a necessary intervention to help him breathe more easily. While he no longer requires a mechanical ventilation mask during the day, he will resume using it at night to ensure sufficient oxygen intake while he sleeps.
At 88 years old, Francis has a history of chronic lung disease, having had part of one lung removed in his youth. His medical team is closely monitoring his condition, though they remain cautious about his prognosis, given his age and underlying health conditions.
Despite the challenges, Francis spent his day praying, resting, and undergoing respiratory therapy at Rome’s Gemelli Hospital, where he has been hospitalized since February 14. His current stay marks the longest hospitalization of his 12-year papacy, underscoring the seriousness of his illness.
Prayers from Argentina and the Catholic Community
As news of his condition spread, a group of Argentine clergy and diplomats gathered outside the hospital to pray for his recovery. They brought with them a statue of Our Lady of Luján, a figure deeply revered in Argentina and one of Francis’ most cherished Marian devotions.
Rev. Fernando Laguna, an Argentine priest based in Rome, spoke about the spiritual bond between Francis and his homeland, saying:
“I would love to hug him, but it’s not possible. He told us that a prayer is like a hug, so I am happy despite the pain.”
Across the Catholic world, messages of support and prayers continue to pour in, as many faithful hope for the pope’s recovery during this critical time.
Vatican Adjusts Lent Plans in Pope’s Absence
Francis’ hospitalization comes as the Vatican prepares for Lent, a solemn period leading up to Easter on April 20. The pope was originally scheduled to lead Ash Wednesday services, but a senior cardinal will now take his place. Similarly, the annual Vatican spiritual retreat will proceed without the pope, though church officials say it will be held “in spiritual communion” with him.
The theme of this year’s retreat, selected before Francis fell ill, is “Hope in Eternal Life”—a message that now holds profound significance given his ongoing health struggles.
While Francis has not made any public statements about his long-term recovery, Vatican officials are preparing for the possibility that he may remain hospitalized for an extended period and could miss additional public engagements.
Francis’ Views on End-of-Life Care and Medical Treatment
The pope’s health crisis has also renewed discussions on Catholic teachings regarding medical treatment and end-of-life care. The Catholic Church teaches that while life must be protected from conception to natural death, medical interventions can be withdrawn if they become disproportionate or excessively burdensome.
Francis himself articulated this view in a 2017 speech to the Pontifical Academy for Life, where he stated:
“There is no obligation to have recourse in all circumstances to every possible remedy.”
This stance suggests that Francis may favor a balanced approach to medical treatment, allowing for supportive care without unnecessarily prolonging suffering. However, Vatican officials have not disclosed whether he has given specific directives on his own medical care should his condition deteriorate further.
What’s Next for Pope Francis?
While the Vatican insists that Francis’ condition is stable, his prolonged hospitalization and fragile health raise questions about his ability to resume full papal duties in the coming weeks. His medical team continues to monitor his lung function, and for now, he will remain under close supervision at the hospital.
As the Catholic Church enters one of its most sacred seasons, the world watches with hope and concern, praying for the full recovery of the pope, who has led the church for more than a decade of transformative change.
For now, Pope Francis remains in the thoughts and prayers of millions, as he fights to regain his strength and return to his pastoral mission.
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