Pope Francis, hospitalized with double pneumonia, remains in critical condition but is alert and continuing his duties, the Vatican reported on Tuesday. Despite his illness, the 88-year-old pontiff has been meeting with Vatican officials to address ongoing matters.
Now in his 12th day at Rome’s Gemelli Hospital—the longest hospital stay of his 12-year papacy—Pope Francis “rested well all night,” according to a brief Vatican statement. An unnamed Vatican official noted that Francis is eating normally, moving within his hospital room, and receiving ongoing treatment.
On Monday, the pope met with Cardinal Pietro Parolin, the Vatican’s secretary of state, and his deputy to discuss pending sainthood cases. The Vatican also announced new appointments that required the pope’s approval. While hospitalized, Francis has continued working intermittently, ensuring that Vatican operations proceed without interruption.
Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni visited the pope on February 19, marking the only other high-profile visitor during his hospitalization. Thousands gathered in St. Peter’s Square on Monday evening to pray for his recovery. Cardinal Oscar Rodriguez Maradiaga of Honduras, a close friend of the pope, expressed optimism, stating, “I think… it’s not time for him to go to heaven yet.”
The Vatican previously described Pope Francis’s condition as “critical” but showing “slight improvement.” A mild kidney insufficiency, reported over the weekend, is not considered a cause for concern. Double pneumonia, a severe infection affecting both lungs, can lead to breathing difficulties due to inflammation and scarring. The Vatican has classified the pope’s infection as “complex,” involving multiple microorganisms.
Pope Francis, who has served as pontiff since 2013, has faced several health challenges in recent years. His susceptibility to lung infections dates back to his youth when he developed pleurisy and had part of one lung removed. Earlier this month, the pope acknowledged having a bad cold that affected his ability to read speeches. Despite this, he continued daily meetings and attended open-air Masses in chilly weather.
Some well-wishers have suggested that Francis should prioritize his health, but Cardinal Maradiaga defended the pope’s commitment to his responsibilities. “He is aware that he has a mission he must carry out, and nothing stops him. The pope explained that he did not accept his election (as pontiff) in order to rest,” Maradiaga said.
The Vatican is expected to release another medical bulletin later today, providing an update on the pope’s condition.
