Pope Francis is no longer in immediate danger from the double pneumonia that sent him to the hospital more than three weeks ago, the Vatican confirmed Monday evening.
His condition has improved, but doctors say it is still serious and he will need to stay in Rome’s Gemelli Hospital for a while longer.
The 88-year-old Pope has been under close care since mid-February.
Vatican doctors said his health is now more stable, and recent tests show that his lungs are healing. Because of this, the medical team is no longer as worried as before, though they are still keeping a close eye on him.
This was reported by Wanted in Rome.
Resting, Praying, and Recovering
On Monday, the Pope followed Lenten spiritual exercises from his hospital room via video link. These exercises are an important part of the Church’s tradition in the weeks leading up to Easter. Vatican officials said the Pope spent most of his day resting and praying.
He still needs oxygen to help him breathe — using a mask at night and a special nasal tube during the day — but he is alert and continues to take part in his duties from the hospital.
Every evening this week, a special Rosary prayer is being held at the Vatican’s Paul VI Hall, where people are gathering to pray for the Pope’s recovery.
Doctors Still Careful
Even though the Pope is getting better, his doctors are being careful. His age and past lung problems make pneumonia more dangerous for him than for most people. There’s no set date for when he’ll be well enough to leave the hospital.
The Pope has had part of one lung removed in the past, which makes breathing infections like pneumonia more serious.
Still, the latest update from the Vatican is much more hopeful than previous reports. For now, Pope Francis will remain under medical care — recovering slowly, but steadily.
