Vatican Confirms Pontiff Is Breathing Independently and in Good Spirits

Pope Francis remains in stable condition despite battling pneumonia, with the Vatican confirming on 19 February that his heart is strong and he is breathing unaided.

The 88-year-old was hospitalised last week due to bronchitis, which later progressed to pneumonia affecting both lungs. Despite the complications, the Pope has been alert, speaking with friends over the phone, and sitting in a chair while engaging in light work, according to Vatican sources.

“The Holy Father had a restful night, woke up, and had breakfast,” a statement from the Vatican read. “He is breathing on his own, and his heart is functioning well.”

Doctors have been closely monitoring his condition, as additional tests revealed a complex medical picture, including a polymicrobial infection that has required cortisone and antibiotic therapy. A follow-up CT scan confirmed the onset of bilateral pneumonia, necessitating further treatment.

The Pope’s health history includes the removal of part of his right lung at the age of 21 due to pleurisy, adding to concerns over his respiratory health. He has also undergone hernia and colon surgeries since 2021 and uses a wheelchair due to knee pain.

As a precaution, the Vatican has cancelled his scheduled audience on 22 February and confirmed that he will not attend Mass on 23 February. However, no decision has been announced regarding his weekly Angelus prayer on Sunday.

Outside Rome’s Gemelli Hospital, where the Pope is receiving treatment, pilgrims have gathered in prayer, lighting candles beneath a statue of Pope John Paul II. Among them, Jacqueline Troncoso, a Bolivian resident in Rome, expressed her hopes for his recovery, saying, “I came to pray for the Pope and wish him well.”

Jesuit theologian Antonio Spadaro, a close associate of the Pope, suggested that Francis may need to remain in hospital for two to three weeks. “His condition is delicate, but there is no sense of alarm,” he stated.

Despite ongoing health challenges, Pope Francis has reiterated that resignation would only be considered in the case of severe incapacity. In a 2024 memoir, he described such a possibility as “distant” and justified only by a serious physical limitation.