Pope Francis is showing signs of “slight improvement” and responding positively to oxygen therapy, the Vatican has announced.
The 88-year-old Pope was hospitalized on February 14 for respiratory problems that were later diagnosed as bilateral pneumonia.
Doctors are closely monitoring the Pope’s condition, and his prognosis remains under evaluation.
On Thursday, the Pope recorded a message of gratitude for those praying for his recovery. Vatican sources noted the effort it took for him to do so, mentioning the sound of the during the recording.
Vatican sources indicated that the Pope was receiving oxygen through a nasal cannula during the audio recording, suggesting he would be unable to read Angelus.
This year’s Ash Wednesday observances were also modified, with Cardinal Angelo De Donatis reading the Pope’s homily at Rome’s Santa Sabrina Basilica in his stead.
The Pope has a history of . At the age of 21, he had a portion of his lung removed following a bout of pleurisy. He is currently receiving treatment for bilateral pneumonia, according to Vatican sources.
Since his hospitalization in February, Catholics worldwide have been praying for Pope Francis, including Vice President JD Vance, who offered a prayer during last month’s National Prayer Breakfast.
“My children and I have been praying for the Holy Father daily, praying for his health and comfort as he faces what appears to be a serious health challenge,” Vance stated.