CV NEWS FEED // The Vatican told journalists Thursday morning local time that Pope Francis had spent another restful night in Rome’s Gemelli Hospital and that his condition remains stable.
The Holy Father has been hospitalized since Feb. 14 due to a severe respiratory infection and double pneumonia. He experienced two urgent breathing emergencies March 3, forcing medical staff to perform bronchoscopies twice.
Though his condition has since stabilized, the Vatican reiterated Wednesday that his prognosis remains “guarded.”
The Pope received the Eucharist and the blessing of the Sacred Ashes Wednesday morning in his private apartment in the hospital, according to a Wednesday update from the Holy See Press Office. He spent Wednesday afternoon alternating between rest and work, including a phone call with Father Gabriel Romanelli, parish priest of the Holy Family Church in Gaza.
The Vatican confirmed that the Pope is currently receiving high-flow oxygenation as planned, with non-invasive mechanical ventilation scheduled for the night. He has also increased his respiratory and motor physiotherapy. He spends much of his days seated in an armchair.