Sun Mar 02 18:27:58 UTC 2025: ## Pope Francis in Stable Condition, Improving After Respiratory Crisis
**Rome, March 2, 2025** – Pope Francis remains in stable condition at Rome’s Gemelli Hospital, showing signs of improvement after a respiratory crisis late last week, the Vatican announced Sunday. While the 88-year-old pontiff continues to receive high-flow supplemental oxygen following a coughing episode on Friday that raised concerns of a new infection, his respiratory function is improving, and he no longer requires mechanical ventilation.
The Vatican reported that the Pope spent a quiet night, resting and attending Mass. He also received visits from high-ranking Vatican officials, Cardinal Pietro Parolin and Archbishop Edgar Pena Parra. Although he cancelled his weekly Angelus prayer for the third consecutive weekend, he released a message expressing gratitude for the well wishes and prayers he’s received, and offering prayers for peace in Ukraine. He also described his hospitalization as an experience of solidarity with the sick and suffering.
Doctors remain cautiously optimistic, classifying his prognosis as guarded, but noting the absence of fever and elevated white blood cells, indicating no new infection. His ability to sustain long periods without mechanical ventilation while using only high-flow oxygen is considered a positive sign. He continues to receive respiratory physiotherapy and is eating and drinking normally.
Despite the cancellation of the Angelus, the Pope’s hospital stay has drawn pilgrims to Gemelli Hospital, many adding a visit to pray for his recovery to their Holy Year pilgrimages. Their presence highlights the global concern and outpouring of support for the Pontiff.
First Piper 