Mon Feb 24 20:04:12 UTC 2025: ## Pope Francis Shows Slight Improvement, Remains Hospitalized with Double Pneumonia
**Rome, Italy** – Pope Francis’s condition has shown a slight improvement, according to a Vatican statement released Monday. The 88-year-old pontiff, hospitalized at Rome’s Gemelli Hospital for nearly two weeks with double pneumonia, remains in critical but stable condition.
While still requiring oxygen, the Vatican reported a reduction in the flow and percentage needed. The statement also noted the absence of asthmatic attacks and improvements in some laboratory test results. The Pope reportedly worked in the afternoon after receiving communion.
His hospitalization, the longest of his papacy, stems from a complex infection affecting both lungs, complicated by pre-existing kidney issues. The Vatican previously described the pneumonia as caused by multiple microorganisms. Francis’s history of pleurisy and the subsequent partial removal of a lung when he was younger contributes to his susceptibility to lung infections.
Despite the serious nature of his illness, the Vatican reported the Pope spent a peaceful night, was eating normally, and was in good spirits. His continued hospitalization has sparked global concern and prayers, with a special prayer service held Monday evening in St. Peter’s Square.
Many, including Ukrainians who have been particularly moved by the Pope’s vocal condemnation of the war in their country, are expressing their support and prayers for his swift recovery. One Ukrainian resident of Rome, Maria Vozlv, stated, “We Ukrainians are really praying for him. He needs to get well and come home.”
First Piper 