Thu Mar 06 03:47:48 UTC 2025: ## Pope Francis’ Condition Remains Stable, But Prognosis Guarded
**ROME, March 6, 2025** – Pope Francis’ condition remains stable, but his prognosis is guarded, the Vatican announced today. The 88-year-old pontiff, hospitalized for double pneumonia since February 14, experienced two respiratory crises on Monday but has shown no further crises since. He is undergoing increased physical therapy in addition to respiratory treatment. While his oxygen needs continue via nasal tube, he will resume using a non-invasive mechanical mask at night.
Despite his illness, the Pope participated in an Ash Wednesday Mass this morning, receiving ashes and Holy Communion. He also made a phone call to a priest in Gaza. However, Cardinal Angelo De Donatis led the traditional Ash Wednesday procession and homily in the Pope’s stead, expressing solidarity and gratitude for the pontiff’s prayers and suffering. The Cardinal’s homily reflected on the fragility of life, a theme particularly poignant given the Pope’s current health challenges.
The planned spiritual retreat for the Holy See hierarchy this weekend will proceed without Pope Francis, but in “spiritual communion” with him. Devotees from around the world, including visitors to the Vatican, expressed their prayers and hopes for the Pope’s full recovery. The Lenten season, a period of reflection and penitence in the Catholic faith, has begun with a sense of shared concern for the Pope’s well-being.
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