Summarize this content to 2000 words in 6 paragraphs Pope Francis had a “restful” night as he continues his recovery from double pneumonia at Rome’s Gemelli hospital, the Vatican said in a short statement Wednesday morning.The 88-year-old Argentine pope remains under medical care as he approaches key milestones in his papacy. Thursday marks the 12th anniversary of his election as the 266th pope, while Friday brings him closer to an unenviable Vatican record—one of the longest hospital stays for a pontiff in modern history.
A nun attends a Rosary prayer for Pope Francis, in St. Peter’s Square at the Vatican, Monday, March 10, 2025.
A nun attends a Rosary prayer for Pope Francis, in St. Peter’s Square at the Vatican, Monday, March 10, 2025.
AP Photo/Andrew Medichini
Why It MattersThe Vatican statement is the latest promising sign in what has been a slow but steady recovery. His doctors have expressed cautious optimism, confirming that Francis is no longer in immediate danger. However, they emphasize the need for continued hospitalization due to the complexity of his condition and overall fragility. Another medical update is expected later Wednesday.Francis has largely withdrawn from public appearances as he recuperates. However, he is expected to continue to follow the Vatican’s annual Lenten retreat remotely while continuing his physical and respiratory therapy.
Christian Catholic worshippers pray as they walk towards St. Peter’s Square, in Rome, Monday, March 10, 2025.
Christian Catholic worshippers pray as they walk towards St. Peter’s Square, in Rome, Monday, March 10, 2025.
AP Photo/Francisco Seco
His hospitalization began on February 14 with what was initially a severe respiratory infection. Over the past four weeks, he has made gradual improvements, but his absence has sparked renewed speculation about the long-term viability of his papacy. While Francis has praised Pope Benedict XVI’s decision to step down in 2013 and previously suggested he might do the same, more recently, he has affirmed that the papacy is a role for life.What to KnowAs the Vatican marks the anniversary of Francis’ election, officials have yet to confirm how—if at all—the occasion will be commemorated, particularly given the pope’s health concerns.
Nuns attend a Rosary prayer for Pope Francis, in St. Peter’s Square at the Vatican, Monday, March 10, 2025.
Nuns attend a Rosary prayer for Pope Francis, in St. Peter’s Square at the Vatican, Monday, March 10, 2025.
AP Photo/Andrew Medichini
Meanwhile, Friday marks four full weeks, or 28 days, of his hospital stay. That puts him on track to tie the second-longest recorded hospitalization for a pope—St. John Paul II’s 28-day stay in 1994 following hip surgery. The longest was also John Paul’s: 55 days in 1981, when he underwent surgery and treatment for a serious infection.The Vatican has released no photos or video of Francis since his admission. Last week, the pope recorded an audio message thanking followers for their prayers, but his voice was noticeably weak and breathless, underscoring the seriousness of his illness.What People Are SayingDr. Carmelo D’Asero, an infectious diseases specialist and expert in geriatric diseases, said Francis was clearly making slow and gradual progress, but still had not recovered fully.”We must not forget that he has been hospitalized for one month,” said D’Asero, who is not involved in Francis’ care. He noted that the arrival of spring in Rome should help. Francis’ bronchitis typically flares during the winter months.”We are entering a warm seasons, which is surely good for those who suffer of respiratory diseases,” he said. “I think he will go back to work, but with smaller workloads and with a constantly monitored oxygen therapy.”
People pray for Pope Francis in front of the Agostino Gemelli Polyclinic, in Rome, Tuesday, March 11, 2025, where the Pontiff is hospitalized since Friday, Feb. 14.
People pray for Pope Francis in front of the Agostino Gemelli Polyclinic, in Rome, Tuesday, March 11, 2025, where the Pontiff is hospitalized since Friday, Feb. 14.
AP Photo/Andrew Medichini
Sister Maria Letizia Salazar, a nun who was praying for Francis on Tuesday outside the Gemelli hospital, said following Tuesday’s positive update: “It really makes me happy, because we were sad as it looked like he was not recovering.”But now that I’ve got this news I am very happy.”What Happens NextFor now, Vatican watchers and Catholics worldwide remain on edge, awaiting further updates on the pope’s condition—and what it might mean for the future of his papacy.This article includes reporting from The Associated Press.
