Pope Francis’ health remains serious but has shown slight improvement as he continues treatment for bronchitis on his 11th day at Rome’s Gemelli Hospital, the Vatican announced on Saturday, February 24.
The 87-year-old pontiff was admitted to the hospital on Friday, February 14, for medical tests and treatment. Vatican officials have assured the faithful that his condition is stable, though he remains under close observation by his medical team.
In response to concerns over the pope’s health, hundreds of Catholics gathered at St. Peter’s Square on Monday evening for a special prayer service dedicated to his recovery. The nightly rosary sessions, scheduled for 9 p.m., were organized by Rome-based cardinals and led by Vatican Secretary of State Cardinal Pietro Parolin.
Among the cardinals present at the inaugural gathering were Cardinal Angelo Becciu, Cardinal Gerhard Müller, Cardinal Marc Ouellet, Cardinal Robert Prevost, Cardinal Giuseppe Versaldi, Cardinal José Tolentino de Mendonça, Cardinal Lazarus You Heung Sik, and Cardinal Francis Arinze, among others.
As prayers continue at the Vatican, the Catholic community worldwide remains hopeful for the pope’s full recovery.
Comment here