Daijiworld Media Network - Rome
Rome, Feb 26: Pope Francis, who has been hospitalized since February 14 for treatment of double pneumonia, had a peaceful night and is currently resting, the Vatican press office reported on Wednesday.
The brief statement provided no further details, though an additional health update is expected in the evening.
On Tuesday evening, the Vatican confirmed that the 88-year-old Pope’s condition remains critical but stable. There have been no acute respiratory issues, and his vital signs are holding steady.
“In the evening, he underwent a scheduled CT scan to monitor the progression of the pneumonia. The prognosis remains cautious,” the update noted.
Despite his health struggles, Pope Francis has continued fulfilling some of his papal duties. On Tuesday morning, after receiving the Eucharist, he resumed limited work activities. He also met with Cardinal Secretary of State Pietro Parolin and Archbishop Edgar Peña Parra, discussing matters related to the Vatican administration.
Among his official acts, Pope Francis authorized the Dicastery for the Causes of Saints to issue several decrees for individuals on the path to sainthood. He recognized the “offering of life” of Fr. Emil Joseph Kapaun, a U.S. Army chaplain during World War II and the Korean War, and Italian layman Salvo D’Acquisto. This category, introduced by Pope Francis in 2017, honors those who have voluntarily sacrificed their lives for others in accordance with Christian principles.
Additionally, he acknowledged the heroic virtues of two diocesan priests and a layperson and made various appointments within the Vatican administration.
The Pope was admitted to Agostino Gemelli Hospital in Rome after experiencing complications from bronchitis. His treatment includes oxygen therapy, which has been slightly reduced as his condition shows marginal improvement. Last week’s update indicated he is also being monitored for mild renal insufficiency, which remains under control.
Despite the gravity of his condition, Monday’s statement brought cautious optimism, noting that no respiratory distress episodes had occurred, some lab tests showed improvement, and his kidney function was being carefully managed.
Doctors continue to monitor the Pope closely, maintaining a cautious prognosis due to the complexity of his health status.