Pope Francis is spending his ninth night in Rome’s Gemelli hospital as he continues treatment for double pneumonia, with the Vatican confirming his condition remains critical. The 88-year-old pontiff suffered a severe respiratory attack requiring high-flow oxygen and blood transfusions, sparking growing concerns over his health and future as the head of the Catholic Church.
The Vatican released a statement on Saturday evening, warning that the Pope is still not in the clear. “The Holy Father’s condition continues to be critical; therefore, as explained yesterday, the pope is not out of danger.” Earlier in the day, he experienced a prolonged asthmatic respiratory crisis, which required urgent medical intervention. Blood tests showed thrombocytopenia, a condition that reduces platelet levels, as well as anaemia, leading doctors to administer blood transfusions.
Despite his worsening condition, Vatican officials said Francis remains alert and spent much of the day sitting in an armchair, although he was noticeably weaker than the day before. His regular Sunday Angelus prayer, which he traditionally delivers from the Vatican, has been cancelled again, with the text set to be published instead.
The Pope’s latest hospitalisation has reignited speculation over whether he may step down, following the example of his predecessor Benedict XVI, who became the first pope in 600 years to resign. However, Vatican Secretary of State Pietro Parolin dismissed the discussions, stating that now is not the time for speculation. “Right now, we are focused on the Holy Father’s health, his recovery, and his return to the Vatican—these are the only things that matter,” he told Italy’s Corriere della Sera.
As news of his condition spreads, groups of nuns and priests have gathered outside Gemelli hospital, praying for his recovery. “We are praying today for the Holy Father, Pope Francis, and our hope is that he will recover well in the grace of God,” said Brazilian priest Don Wellison, joining others in offering support.
Doctors say Francis has been moving between his hospital bed, a chair, and a small chapel where he continues to pray, while also keeping up with some work. However, Professor Sergio Alfieri, the lead doctor overseeing his treatment, issued a stark warning on Friday. While his condition had improved slightly, allowing doctors to reduce some of his medication, Alfieri made it clear that the situation remains serious. “Is the pope out of danger? No, the pope is not out of danger,” he said. “If you then ask whether he is in danger of dying at this moment, the answer is still no.”
At 88 years old and having undergone several major surgeries in recent years, questions remain over how much longer the pontiff can continue in his role. Francis has previously stated that he sees the papacy as a job for life but has also acknowledged the possibility of resignation if his health prevents him from carrying out his duties. In the past, he has joked about the speculation surrounding his health, recalling how, after his colon surgery in 2021, some within the Vatican were already preparing for a conclave to elect his successor.
For now, the Vatican remains on high alert as the world watches and waits to see if Pope Francis will recover from his latest health scare.
