Pope Francis, currently facing a battle with double pneumonia, remains in critical condition, and the Vatican has indicated that his prognosis is still uncertain due to the “complexity” of his clinical status.
Yesterday, the Vatican first characterized his condition as critical, revealing that Francis required supplemental oxygen and blood transfusions following a “prolonged asthma-like respiratory crisis.”
“The Holy Father’s condition is still critical; however, he has not experienced any further respiratory crises since last night,” the Vatican stated.
Blood tests showed a “mild renal insufficiency, which is presently manageable,” the statement added.
The Vatican described the Pope as “alert and well-oriented” and mentioned that he was receiving “high-flow oxygen therapy” via a tube placed under his nose.
People gather in prayer at the statue of John Paul II outside Gemelli hospital.
In a written message intended for his usual Sunday prayer in St Peter’s Square, which he could not deliver for the second week in a row, Francis expressed his determination to continue “confidently” with his treatment in the hospital. He extended his gratitude to his doctors and to all those who have sent messages of support.
Archbishop Rino Fisichella, a senior Vatican official, urged participants at a Mass in St Peter’s Basilica this morning to elevate their prayers for Francis, making them “stronger and more intense.”
The Diocese of Rome, which is led by the Pope, held a special Mass this evening to pray for Francis, asking for him to find “the strength necessary to endure this challenging time.”
Double pneumonia represents a serious infection that can cause inflammation and scarring in both lungs, complicating the ability to breathe. The Vatican has labeled the Pope’s infection as “complex,” stating it is caused by two or more microorganisms.
Since becoming pope in 2013, Francis has encountered health challenges over the past two years. His previous battle with pleurisy in his youth and the removal of part of one lung make him particularly susceptible to lung infections.
This morning, pilgrims near the Vatican expressed their worries regarding the Pope’s health.
“I am very, very sad,” shared Elvira Romana from Italy. “I cannot fathom how one can continue normally at this time.”
Matteo Licari from Sardinia expressed his concerns, stating, “I am extremely worried. Let’s hope he can keep living; we are waiting for his return.”
Outside Gemelli hospital, small groups gathered to pray near a statue of the late Pope John Paul II, who received treatment there numerous times throughout his papacy.
Visitors were leaving flowers and notes for Francis, lighting candles at the base of John Paul II’s memorial.
I have been touched by the many messages of kindness I have received, particularly the letters and drawings from children. Thank you for your support and the comforting prayers coming from all corners of the globe!
— Pope Francis (@Pontifex) February 23, 2025
The Pope traditionally delivers his Angelus prayer from the Apostolic Palace window, concluding by asking the crowd in St Peter’s Square below to pray for him and enjoy their lunch.
He regularly calls for peace and did so again today, as the third anniversary of Russia’s invasion of Ukraine approaches tomorrow.
“Tomorrow marks the third anniversary of the large-scale war against Ukraine: a painful and shameful moment for all of humanity!” he remarked.
“As I renew my solidarity with the suffering Ukrainian people, I invite you to remember the victims of all armed conflicts and to pray for peace in Palestine, Israel, and across the Middle East, Myanmar, Kivu, and Sudan.”
Last Sunday, the pontiff also missed his Angelus prayer, with the Vatican providing a written statement instead.
This marks the first instance in which the Pope has missed two consecutive Angelus prayers due to health concerns.
Following intestinal surgery in 2021, he returned to lead the Angelus only a week later and skipped one public Sunday prayer in 2023 after another procedure.
On Sunday morning, the Holy See Press Office reported that Pope Francis enjoyed a peaceful ninth night at Rome’s Gemelli hospital, where he is undergoing treatment for double pneumonia.
— Vatican News (@VaticanNews) February 23, 2025
‘Respiratory Crisis’
In a statement released yesterday evening, the Vatican reported that the 88-year-old pontiff experienced a “prolonged asthma-like respiratory crisis” earlier in the day, necessitating the use of “high-flow oxygen.”
“The Holy Father’s condition remains critical,” the statement confirmed. “He is not out of danger yet.”
It added, “The Holy Father is alert and has spent the day sitting up, although he is experiencing more discomfort than yesterday [Friday]. Currently, his prognosis remains cautious.”
In addition to the supplemental oxygen, the Vatican indicated he required blood transfusions due to a low platelet count linked to anemia.
A doctor based in the U.S. noted that the Gemelli team was likely employing transfusions to increase the Pope’s levels of both red blood cells and platelets, which are essential for blood clotting and preventing bleeding.
Dr. Andrea Vicini, a Jesuit priest and professor at Boston College, emphasized that he learned about the Pope’s health solely through public statements from the Vatican.
Pope Francis seen during the weekly General Audience on February 12 at the Vatican.
“It appears to be under control, but his body is showing signs of difficulty in overcoming this situation,” he remarked.
Double pneumonia is a severe infection that can cause inflammation and scarring in both lungs, leading to breathing difficulties.
The Vatican has characterized the Pope’s infection as “complex,” indicating that it results from multiple microorganisms.
In a briefing on Friday, two of his doctors confirmed that the Pope is particularly vulnerable due to his advanced age and frailty.
Dr. Sergio Alfieri, a senior member of the Gemelli staff, warned of the potential risk of the lung infection spreading to his bloodstream and evolving into sepsis, which “could prove exceedingly challenging to overcome.”
Since his papacy began in 2013, Francis has faced multiple health issues in the past two years, as he is especially prone to lung infections due to developing pleurisy in his youth and undergoing part of a lung removal.
A group of nuns and priests from various locations gathered outside the hospital entrance yesterday to pray for the Pope.
They sang as they encircled the statue of former Pope John Paul II, where supporters have left candles featuring Francis’s image.
Prayers offered for Pope Francis outside the Gemelli hospital in Rome.
“We are praying for the Holy Father, Pope Francis today, and we hope for his swift recovery through the Grace of God,” said Brazilian priest Don Wellison.
Pope Francis previously indicated that the papacy is a lifetime commitment; however, he has also suggested the possibility of resignation, akin to his predecessor Benedict XVI.
The German pope made history in 2013 by becoming the first pontiff since the Middle Ages to step down voluntarily, citing declining physical and mental health.
Francis has consistently stated that it is not yet time for him to resign, but his current health situation has reignited questions regarding his ability to lead the world’s approximately 1.4 billion Catholics.
The Pope maintains a demanding work schedule and conducted a 12-day tour of the Asia-Pacific in September.
Prayers at Knock Basilica
Fr. Richard Gibbons, Priest and Rector of Knock Shrine, offered prayers for Pope Francis during the midday mass at Knock Basilica.
Fr. Gibbons expressed, “Our thoughts and especially our prayers are with Pope Francis today, as we recognize from reports that he is in a very serious condition.”
“We are indeed praying for Pope Francis, for a swift recovery and good health, and for his medical team and all who care for him.”
We need your consent to load this comcast-player content. We use comcast-player to manage extra content that can set cookies on your device and collect data about your activity. Please review their details and accept them to load the content. Manage Preferences
Pope Francis visited Knock Shrine during the World Meeting of Families in Ireland in 2018, where an enthusiastic crowd of 40,000 welcomed him.
Fr. Gibbons emphasized the unique connection Pope Francis has with Knock Shrine.
“He visited Knock Shrine in 2018. It was a remarkable occasion; he appeared very relaxed and enjoyed his time here. We were delighted to have him.”
“He participated in a moment of silent prayer within the Apparition Chapel, which extended outside to 40,000 very quiet individuals at that moment.”
“Moreover, he elevated the Shrine to International Status in 2022. We share a distinct affinity for Pope Francis, as does the entire community,” he concluded.
Additional reporting by Shane Ó Curraighín
