Sat Mar 08 11:58:19 UTC 2025: ## Pope Francis’ Condition Remains Precarious After Three Weeks in Hospital
**Rome, Italy – March 8, 2025** – Pope Francis continues his recovery from double pneumonia at Rome’s Gemelli hospital, entering his fourth week of hospitalization. While his condition has stabilized, experts express concern over the length of his stay and the increased risk of secondary infections.
The 88-year-old pontiff, who suffers from chronic lung disease, has been receiving respiratory and physical therapy. He has been using high-flow supplemental oxygen during the day and a non-invasive ventilation mask at night. Although he experienced episodes of acute respiratory failure earlier this week, requiring bronchoscopies, the Vatican reports a quiet and restful night.
Despite the Pope’s hospitalization, Vatican operations continue. Cardinal Pietro Parolin celebrated Mass and delivered a message from the Pope emphasizing the importance of protecting life from conception to natural death. Cardinal Michael Czerny will lead several events in the Pope’s stead, including a Holy Year Mass for volunteers.
Medical experts outside of the Pope’s care team express a cautious outlook. While acknowledging the encouraging sign of him breathing with just a nasal tube for part of the day, they highlight the precarious nature of his situation and the potential for a long recovery process. The prolonged hospitalization raises concerns about the risk of secondary infections.
Pope Francis was initially admitted on February 14th for bronchitis, but the infection progressed to double pneumonia, marking the longest period of his papacy spent hospitalized and sparking questions about his future. A further medical update is expected.
First Piper 