Tue Feb 18 12:35:24 UTC 2025: ## Pope Francis’ Illness Cancels Holy Year Events
**Rome, Italy** – Pope Francis remains hospitalized in Rome’s Gemelli hospital with a complex respiratory infection, forcing the cancellation of several key events planned for the Vatican’s Holy Year. The 88-year-old pontiff, who has a history of respiratory problems, was admitted on Friday after a bout of bronchitis worsened into a polymicrobial infection.
The Vatican announced on Tuesday the cancellation of papal audiences scheduled for the weekend, including a special audience with deacons and a Mass for their ordination. Archbishop Rino Fisichella, the organizer of the Jubilee, will preside over the Mass instead. This follows a similar arrangement last weekend for a Mass with artists.
The Holy Year, a major Catholic event occurring once every 25 years, is expected to draw 30 million pilgrims to Rome. Francis’ illness casts uncertainty over future planned events, including those scheduled for the weekend of March 8th and 9th, dedicated to volunteers.
The Vatican has not indicated how long the Pope’s hospitalization will last, stating only that the treatment requires an “adequate” stay. The Pope’s condition is described as “fair”. This hospitalization is already longer than a previous one in 2023 for pneumonia.
Concerns have been raised about the Pope’s workload leading up to his hospitalization. Despite suffering from bronchitis, he continued with a busy schedule, even participating in an outdoor Mass despite breathing difficulties. Sources indicate he has a history of disregarding medical advice.
The cancellations represent a significant disruption to the Holy Year’s schedule, raising questions about the future participation of the Pope in planned events.
First Piper 