The Vatican has announced the cancellation of papal audiences through the weekend as Pope Francis, 88, continues to be hospitalized with a respiratory infection. This development has impacted the upcoming events of the Vatican's Holy Year, a significant celebration of Catholicism that occurs once every quarter-century.
Pope Francis was admitted to Rome's Gemelli hospital in a 'fair' condition after his bronchitis worsened. Medical personnel have diagnosed him with a polymicrobial respiratory tract infection, indicating a mix of viruses, bacteria, and possibly other organisms in his respiratory system. The Vatican has not provided a timeline for his hospital stay, emphasizing the need for adequate treatment.
Despite his health challenges, Pope Francis had a peaceful night, enjoyed breakfast, and read newspapers on Tuesday morning. He also resumed some work activities, including making a call to a parish in Gaza City to check on the local Catholic community.
The cancellation of papal audiences has affected the Holy Year weekend dedicated to deacons, with the archbishop now set to preside over the Mass that Pope Francis was scheduled to lead. The next Jubilee events involving the pope are slated for the March 8-9 weekend, focusing on volunteers.
Pope Francis, who had part of a lung removed in his youth due to a pulmonary infection, has a history of bronchitis during winter months. Despite medical advice, he has been known to push himself, as seen in his recent attendance at an outdoor Jubilee Mass for the armed forces.
This hospitalization marks a longer period of absence compared to a previous episode in 2023. The Vatican continues to monitor the pope's condition closely as he receives treatment for his respiratory infection.
