On the 18th day of Pope Francis' hospitalization at the Gemelli Polyclinic for a serious respiratory infection, it is still “premature” to consider a discharge date, Vatican sources said on March 3, 2025.
Although the 88-year-old Pontiff has not suffered another attack since Friday, the prognosis remains “guarded,” and he is not out of danger.
“The Pope rested well throughout the night,” the Vatican said early this Monday morning.
[Below, see images of Sunday night's Rosary in St. Peter's.]
According to Vatican sources, when he woke up the Pontiff had breakfast and began his daily therapy.
On Sunday, two days after his severe attack caused by spasms, the Pope did not require non-invasive mechanical ventilation, but only high-flow oxygen therapy. In fact, Pope Francis participated in Holy Mass with those who have been caring for him during his hospitalization. He spent the rest of the day alternating between rest and prayer.
Sunday evening report
He does not have a fever.
Given the complexity of the clinical picture, the prognosis remains guarded.
This morning, the Holy Father participated in Holy Mass, together with those who have been caring for him during these days of hospitalization. Afterward, he alternated rest with prayer."
Vatican News added:
No direct consequences from last Friday's isolated bronchospasm are evident. However, the risk of a deterioration in the Pope's condition remains.
More detailed news is expected later today, and a medical press conference may be held in the next few days to review the situation.
The Pope has not appeared in public since February 14, when he was admitted.
The evening Rosary led by cardinals in St. Peter's Square continues since last Monday. On Sunday evening, the cardinal in charge of the Pope's charity work, Cardinal Konrad Krajewski, led the prayer.
Pictures are below.
Blessing of frailty
On Sunday, the Holy Father released his message for the midday Angelus, which spoke of the "blessing" in fragility, and also noted that war "from here, appears even more absurd."
I feel in my heart the “blessing” that is hidden within frailty, because it is precisely in these moments that we learn even more to trust in the Lord; at the same time, I thank God for giving me the opportunity to share in body and spirit the condition of so many sick and suffering people.
Follow the updates on the Pope's health here.
