farinabakingcompany.com – On February 14, 2025, Pope Francis was admitted to Gemelli Hospital in Rome after experiencing breathing difficulties over the past week. The Vatican reported that the 88-year-old Pontiff is undergoing necessary diagnostic tests and treatment for ongoing bronchitis. Due to his health condition, he had previously delegated officials to deliver his speeches.
Progression to Pneumonia
During his hospitalization, Pope Francis’s condition progressed to pneumonia affecting both lungs. Despite the severity, the Vatican assured that his clinical condition has slightly improved. He remains without fever, with stable blood flow parameters, and continues to engage in his duties, including receiving the Eucharist and working from his hospital room.
Historical Health Challenges
Pope Francis has faced multiple health challenges in recent years. In July 2021, he underwent surgery to remove part of his colon due to diverticulitis, leading to an 11-day hospital stay. He also experienced a recurrence of diverticulitis in January 2022. In June 2023, he had a three-hour operation to repair an abdominal hernia, after which he spent eight days recovering in the hospital. Additionally, since 2022, he has been using a wheelchair due to knee pain.
Current State of the Vatican
Amid Pope Francis’s hospitalization, the Vatican continues its operations under the guidance of senior officials. All public and private meetings of the Pope have been suspended until February 18, 2025, as a precautionary measure. The Vatican has not announced any changes to the Pope’s planned trips to Portugal in August and Mongolia in September 2025, indicating optimism about his recovery.
The global Catholic community remains hopeful for Pope Francis’s swift and complete recovery, with many offering prayers and well-wishes during this challenging time.