88-Year-Old Pope Francis Battles Pneumonia as Vatican Cancels Key Engagements and Faithful Pray for His Recovery
Pope Francis has developed pneumonia in both lungs, the Vatican announced on Tuesday, following a further decline in his health. Medical tests confirmed “the onset of bilateral pneumonia,” requiring additional medication, the statement said. Despite his condition, the 88-year-old pontiff remains “in good spirits.”
Hospitalization and Worsening Condition
The pope was admitted to Rome’s Gemelli Hospital last Friday for bronchitis. Initially treated with antibiotics, doctors altered his treatment plan on Monday after discovering a “polymicrobial infection.” His pre-existing respiratory conditions, including bronchiectasis and asthmatic bronchitis, have complicated the situation, the Vatican noted.
A follow-up CT scan on Tuesday revealed the onset of pneumonia, prompting intensified therapy. The pope has a history of lung issues—he had part of his right lung removed at age 21 due to a life-threatening pleurisy infection.
Vatican Adjusts Schedule Amid Health Concerns
The Vatican has already canceled several of Pope Francis’ engagements, including a scheduled audience on Saturday and a Sunday mass. However, it has not yet confirmed whether he will lead the weekly Angelus prayer this coming Sunday.
Faithful Pray for Pope’s Recovery
Pilgrims and tourists gathered in St. Peter’s Square on Tuesday, offering prayers for the pope’s health.
“I hope he gets better soon,”
said Birgit Jungreuthmayer, a 48-year-old Austrian tourist. Others assembled outside the Gemelli Hospital, lighting candles and sending their well wishes.
The Vatican shared heartfelt messages from children and parents at the hospital, thanking the pope for his prayers. Francis, in turn, expressed gratitude for the support and asked for continued prayers.
Pope’s Resilience Amid Ongoing Health Battles
Despite his ailments, the Pope remains active. In September 2024, he completed a demanding four-nation tour in the Asia-Pacific region. A Vatican source said his recent hospitalization followed an exhausting two-week schedule, but assured there was no immediate cause for alarm.
Francis has left open the possibility of resigning if he becomes too ill to serve, though he has repeatedly emphasized that his current health challenges do not warrant stepping down.
“The reality is, quite simply, that I am old,”
he stated in a recent autobiography, adding, “I carry on.”
As he continues treatment, the world watches and prays for the recovery of the leader of the Catholic Church.
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