Pope Francis’ health is improving as he continues his recovery from pneumonia at Rome’s Gemelli hospital, the Vatican said on Thursday. The 88-year-old pontiff, who was admitted last Friday with bronchitis that later worsened into pneumonia, “got up and had breakfast in his armchair,” according to Vatican spokesperson Matteo Bruni.
The pope has shown signs of progress, with his blood tests revealing a “slight improvement” in his condition. Despite his illness, he remains actively engaged with his work. Vatican sources say he has been reading and signing documents, writing, speaking with his collaborators, and keeping up with current events.
“He is breathing on his own, and his heart is holding up very well,” a Vatican source confirmed.
Meeting with Italian Prime Minister
On Wednesday, Pope Francis felt well enough to receive a 20-minute visit from Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni. After the meeting, Meloni described him as “alert and responsive,” adding that he still retained his sense of humor.
“We joked as always. He hasn’t lost his proverbial sense of humor,” Meloni said in a statement.
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Uncertainty Over Sunday’s Angelus Prayer
The pope’s health condition has forced him to cancel several events this week, including a scheduled audience on Saturday and the Sunday Mass at St. Peter’s Basilica. It remains unclear whether he will deliver the traditional Angelus prayer at noon on Sunday, which will be presided over by a cardinal in his absence.
“We still don’t know how it will work,” Bruni said on Thursday.
Concerns and Prayers for the Pope
Pope Francis’ illness has raised concerns worldwide, especially given his history of health issues. Over the years, he has undergone colon and hernia surgery, struggled with hip and knee pain, and had part of his right lung removed at age 21 due to pleurisy.
The Vatican has been providing frequent updates on his condition to counter online speculation about his health. While rumors have circulated about his possible resignation, the pope has stated that he would only consider stepping down in the event of a “serious physical impediment.”
Cardinal Baldassare Reina has urged churches in Rome to pray for the pope’s recovery. Outside the Gemelli hospital, well-wishers have placed candles and images of Pope Francis near a statue of Pope John Paul II.
Suzanna Munteanu, a Romanian tourist visiting St. Peter’s Square, expressed her admiration for the pope and optimism about his recovery.
“I love this pope… Pope Bergoglio, very much, and he’s very dear to me, especially that he cares for the poor people, and I do hope he will recover very soon,” she said.
For now, the Vatican remains hopeful about the pope’s condition, with his medical team closely monitoring his progress.