Overview
- Pope Francis, 88, has been hospitalized since February 14, 2025, initially for bronchitis, which progressed to double pneumonia.
- The Vatican announced that the pope's condition is no longer critical, but his recovery remains medically complex with a reserved prognosis.
- Recent updates indicate that the pope has shown signs of improvement, including a peaceful night's rest and continued respiratory physiotherapy.
- Due to his health, Pope Francis will not preside over the Ash Wednesday celebrations on March 5, with Cardinal Angelo de Donatis stepping in.
- This is the pope's fourth and longest hospitalization since his papacy began in 2013, raising concerns about his ability to continue fulfilling his duties.