Pope Francis’ recovery from double pneumonia continues to show signs of progress, according to the latest medical bulletin released by the Vatican on Wednesday. The 88-year-old pontiff, who was admitted to the hospital on July 4th, is no longer in imminent danger of death, as declared by his doctors two days ago.
The bulletin stated that the pope’s condition remains stable, but also highlighted the complexity of his overall health, considering his fragility. Despite this, Pope Francis has been actively following the spiritual retreat remotely and has resumed physical and respiratory therapy after a peaceful night. He continues to receive high flows of oxygen through nasal tubes during the day and a noninvasive mechanical mask to aid his rest at night.
Due to the ongoing Lenten spiritual exercises, the Vatican hierarchy is on retreat this week, and as a result, the pope’s weekly Wednesday general audience has been canceled. This retreat has been a mainstay of Pope Francis’ pontificate, and he has always emphasized the importance of spiritual reflection and renewal.
This week holds significant milestones for the pope. On Thursday, he marks the 12th anniversary of his election as the 266th pope. The Holy See has not announced any plans to commemorate this occasion, which is a public holiday in the Vatican. However, no medical bulletin will be issued on this day, allowing the pope to rest and focus on his recovery.
Pope Francis was elected on the fifth ballot of the 2013 conclave, which was called after Pope Benedict XVI’s resignation. While he has praised Benedict’s humility in stepping down, the pope has also stated that the papacy is a job for life. This statement reflects his dedication and commitment to serving the Catholic Church and its followers.
Another milestone comes on Friday, when Pope Francis marks four weeks of hospitalization. The longest hospital stay by a pope was recorded by St. John Paul II, who spent 55 days in the hospital in 1981 after undergoing a minor surgical operation and being treated for a cytomegalovirus infection. Pope Francis is on track to equal the second-longest stay, 28 days, which was recorded by John Paul II in 1994 when he had surgery to repair his right hip joint after fracturing his right femur in a fall, according to Gemelli hospital.
Since his admission, the Vatican has not released any photos or videos of Pope Francis. However, last week, the pope recorded an audio message to thank people for their prayers. Despite his frailty, his message was filled with gratitude and hope, showing his unwavering faith and determination.
The pope’s recovery has been closely followed by people all over the world, with many offering prayers and well wishes for his health. His message of love, compassion, and unity has touched the hearts of millions, and his absence has been felt by all.
As we continue to pray for the pope’s speedy recovery, let us also remember his teachings and the values he stands for. Pope Francis has been a beacon of hope and a symbol of peace, and his absence has reminded us of the importance of his presence in our lives.
We look forward to the day when Pope Francis will return to his duties, spreading his message of love and unity to the world. Until then, let us continue to pray for his health and well-being, and may his recovery be a testament to the power of faith and the strength of the human spirit.
