Today marks the 36th day of the Pope’s hospitalization at the Gemelli Hospital for bilateral pneumonia. The Vatican press office reported that his medical condition remains stable, with some small improvements in activity, mobility, gas exchange, and breathing.
There has been no new medical bulletin since Wednesday, but it is noted that non-invasive mechanical ventilation is suspended at night, and high-flow oxygen with nasal cannulas is gradually reduced during the day. The Pope has been undergoing pharmacological therapies, respiratory and motor physiotherapy, work activities, and prayer during this time.
As for the upcoming Sunday Angelus, it is likely to be in written form, as it has been for the past five Sundays. The Pope has not received any new visitors apart from close collaborators for work purposes. The medical team has not provided a timeline for his discharge from the hospital or a new press briefing. The Vatican has not made any decisions regarding Easter rituals or who will preside over them.
Cardinal Victor Manuel Fernandez, the Prefect of the Congregation for the Doctrine of the Faith, provided an update on the Pope’s condition, stating that he is doing well but the high-flow oxygen dries everything out. He needs to relearn how to speak, but his overall health remains the same. When asked if he will be in the Vatican for Easter, Cardinal Fernandez mentioned that the decision will depend on the doctors’ certainty of his health as the Pope wants to dedicate himself entirely to others in the time he has left.
Cardinal Fernandez also mentioned that the Pope initially did not want to go to the hospital but was convinced by close friends. He praised the Pope’s strength and ability to find meaning even in difficult times. He believes that this experience will be fruitful for the Church and the world. While there are no plans for resignation, the Pope may have surprises in store as he emerges from this challenging period.
Despite the challenges, there have been visible improvements in the Pope’s condition, as seen in the suspension of nighttime mechanical ventilation and the reduced need for oxygen during the day. Father Roberto Pasolini, the preacher of the Papal Household, sent warm regards to the Holy Father during a Lenten sermon for the Curia.
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