Pope Francis Continues Oxygen Therapy Amid Health Concerns, Skips Sunday Prayers

Pope Francis Continues Oxygen Therapy Amid Health Concerns, Skips Sunday Prayers

Pope Francis is undergoing oxygen therapy to assist his breathing, according to sources from the Vatican. As he remains hospitalized at Rome’s Gemelli Hospital, the pontiff is reportedly capable of some movement but is not in a condition to resume his usual activities. His ability to eat solid food signifies some positive progress, as he does not require assisted feeding.

Yesterday, the pope expressed gratitude in a recorded message directed at those praying for his recovery. Vatican insiders noted that the atmosphere of the recording suggested it was a challenging effort for him, with the sound of his oxygen machine audible in the background.

Sources within the Vatican indicated that the pontiff will not be reading the upcoming Angelus. The oxygen therapy has made it difficult for him to participate fully in public ceremonies. They remarked, “We could hear yesterday that he was getting oxygen through the nose during audio.” Thus, his absence from Sunday prayers highlights the severity of his condition.

As the pope progresses into his fourth week of hospitalization, details regarding his recovery remain vague. The 88-year-old pontiff’s medical team is reportedly aiming for greater stability before providing further public updates.

Medical Team Expresses Concerns

Dr. Claudio Santini, an internal medicine expert from Grassi Hospital, shared insights with Corriere della Sera regarding the pope’s health status. He indicated that the lack of regular bulletins announcing improvements in the pope’s condition might not be an encouraging sign.

Dr. Santini emphasized the potential chronic respiratory issues facing the pontiff, suggesting that these underlying ailments have restricted his mobility. Additionally, the emergence of double pneumonia complicates his situation further.

The Pope’s Medical History

Pope Francis has a longstanding history of respiratory concerns. At the age of 21, he underwent surgery to remove part of a lung due to pleurisy, which is an inflammation of the lung’s protective membranes. Vatican sources confirm that he is currently receiving treatment specifically for bilateral pneumonia.

Although oxygen therapy seems to be aiding in his recovery, Dr. Santini warned that the pontiff should not depend solely on this treatment. He explained that therapies like oxygen assistance are crucial but may place significant stress on the patient and could have adverse effects on other essential systems.

Global Support and Catholic Observances

Catholics from around the world are praying for Pope Francis during this challenging time. Earlier this week, due to health complications, he was unable to preside over Ash Wednesday mass. Cardinal Angelo De Donatis stepped in to read the pope’s homily at Santa Sabina Basilica in Rome.

The pope’s homily emphasized the importance of the ashes and the reflective nature of the Lenten observance. He articulated, “We bow our heads in order to receive the ashes as if to look at ourselves and to look within ourselves. Indeed, the ashes help to remind us that our lives are fragile and insignificant: we are dust, from dust we were created, and to dust we shall return.”

In addition, the pontiff called upon the faithful to engage in a heartfelt return to God, urging his followers to prioritize their spiritual lives. His message resonated deeply, especially in light of his health challenges.

A Vigilant Eye on Recovery

The Vatican community remains vigilant regarding Pope Francis’s health situation. Observers note that despite the severity of his illness, the pontiff retains the support of many, both within the church and beyond. As he continues to navigate this difficult chapter in his life, expressions of solidarity and prayers flood in from around the globe.

The world watches closely as the Vatican officials balance transparency with the pope’s privacy needs. Each update will be critical in shaping public understanding of his health status and the path his recovery may take.

This situation highlights not only the individual health challenges faced by the pope but also underscores the broader significance of leadership within the Catholic Church. As Pope Francis confronts these obstacles, he embodies resilience while inspiring countless individuals.

Report contributed by Fox News’ Courtney Walsh.