Pope Francis in Critical Condition but Alert, Vatican Confirms
Vatican City — Pope Francis remains in critical condition as he battles double pneumonia but had a “tranquil” night, the Vatican reported on Sunday. Despite requiring medical intervention following a respiratory crisis and blood transfusions, the 88-year-old pontiff remains alert and has been able to rest.
Francis was admitted to Rome’s Gemelli Hospital on February 14 after experiencing difficulty breathing for several days. Doctors later diagnosed pneumonia in both lungs.
For the first time, the Vatican acknowledged his condition as critical on Saturday, revealing that the pope had required supplemental oxygen and blood transfusions following a “prolonged asthma-like respiratory crisis.”
“The night was tranquil, the pope rested,” the Vatican stated in a brief update Sunday morning, offering no further details.
A Vatican official, speaking anonymously, confirmed that Francis was awake and responsive. Although he continues to receive oxygen through a nasal tube as needed, he is breathing unaided. Additional medical evaluations are scheduled throughout the day, with a further update expected in the evening.
Vatican Community Unites in Prayer
Unable to deliver his traditional Sunday address for a second consecutive week, Francis instead shared a written message expressing confidence in his treatment and gratitude toward his doctors and well-wishers.
During Mass at St. Peter’s Basilica, Archbishop Rino Fisichella urged worshippers to intensify their prayers for the pope’s recovery. Meanwhile, the Diocese of Rome has scheduled a special Sunday evening Mass, seeking divine strength for Francis during this “moment of trial.”
Near the Vatican, pilgrims expressed deep concern. “I am very, very sad,” said Elvira Romana from Italy. “It’s hard to go about daily life at a time like this.” Others, like Matteo Licari from Sardinia, voiced their anxiety. “Let’s hope he can keep living,” he said.
Outside Gemelli Hospital, groups of supporters gathered near a statue of the late Pope John Paul II, leaving flowers, lighting candles, and offering prayers for Francis.
A Complex Health Battle
Double pneumonia, an infection affecting both lungs, can cause severe inflammation and scarring, making breathing difficult. The Vatican has described Francis’ case as “complex,” attributing it to multiple microorganisms.
Francis’ medical history makes him particularly vulnerable. As a young adult, he suffered from pleurisy, which led to the partial removal of one lung. In recent years, his health has declined, with recurrent infections raising concerns about his resilience.
On Saturday, the Vatican confirmed that his condition had required “high-flow oxygen” and blood transfusions to address a low platelet count, a sign of anemia. Medical experts warn that at his age and frailty, the risk of complications—including sepsis—remains high.
Doctors at Gemelli Hospital continue to monitor him closely, as the world watches and prays for his recovery.
