Pope’s Health Remains Stable Following Respiratory Crisis| National Catholic Register

According to Vatican sources, the Pontiff’s breathing is improving, though his overall condition remains complex. The situation regarding his pneumonia is described as stable. Francis prayed for approximately 20 minutes in the chapel near his room and remains in good spirits.

Pope Francis’ clinical condition remains stable after Friday’s bronchospasm episode that caused vomiting and sudden respiratory deterioration, according to a Holy See Press Office statement released Saturday evening.

The 88-year-old Pontiff has been alternating between non-invasive mechanical ventilation and high-flow oxygen therapy, the Vatican communiqué stated.

The statement explained that the Pope has no fever and shows no signs of infection in his blood work, while his vital signs like blood pressure and heart rate have remained stable. It noted that Francis has maintained his appetite and is actively participating in breathing exercises prescribed by his medical team.

Vatican officials confirmed the Pope has not experienced further bronchospasm episodes. He remains “alert and oriented” and received the Eucharist Saturday afternoon, after which he dedicated time to prayer.

The statement concluded by noting that “the prognosis remains reserved,” suggesting doctors are still cautious about the Pope’s recovery timeline.

The Holy See Press Office confirmed earlier today that, as with the previous two Sundays, the text of the Angelus will be distributed in written form tomorrow rather than delivered by the Pope in person.

According to Vatican sources, the Pontiff’s breathing is improving, though his overall condition remains complex. The situation regarding his pneumonia is described as stable.

Francis prayed for approximately 20 minutes in the chapel near his room on the 10th floor of Rome’s Gemelli Hospital, where he is receiving treatment. The Pope reportedly remains in good spirits and has been informed of the many prayers being offered for him.

Further medical details may become available tomorrow, Vatican sources indicated.

Marco Mancini contributed to this report.