Photo: Depositphotos
Vatican City – A week after being hospitalised with a lung infection, Pope Francis ‘ condition has improved slightly. This was reported by the Vatican press service on Friday, 21 February.
“The night went well. This morning, Pope Francis got up and had breakfast,”the official statement said.
Stabilisation after bilateral pneumonia
The 88-year-old pontiff was previously diagnosed with bilateral pneumonia, which caused considerable concern among Catholics around the world. However, his condition has stabilised in recent days. The Vatican has confirmed that the Pope no longer has a high temperature and has returned to some duties.
Despite the improvements, it is not yet known whether Pope Francis will be able to address the faithful with the traditional Angelus prayer from the balcony in St Peter’s Square next Sunday. All public meetings of the Pontiff have been cancelled at least until the end of this week.
Is Pope Francis’ abdication possible?
Meanwhile, the Vatican does not rule out the possibility of Pope Francis’ abdication due to health reasons. In an interview with the Italian newspaper Corriere della Sera, Cardinal Gianfranco Ravasi said that the Pope could resign if he is no longer able to perform his duties.
“If Pope Francis finds it difficult to fulfil his duties, he will make an appropriate decision, as his predecessor Benedict XVI did,”Ravazi said.
Pope Benedict XVI became the first pontiff in six centuries to voluntarily abdicate in 2013 due to health reasons.
Jubilee year of Christianity is the main goal of the Pope
Despite his deteriorating health, Pope Francis hopes to complete this year’s Jubilee Year of Christianity, which in 2024 will be dedicated to the theme of hope.
“This is important to him,” Cardinal Ravasi added, emphasising the Pope’s commitment to his spiritual duties.
Support from around the world
Following the news of Pope Francis’ hospitalisation, thousands of believers from around the world have been sending their wishes for his health and praying for his recovery. Every day, pilgrims gather near St Peter’s Square in the Vatican to support the Pontiff in this difficult time.
