Pope Francis: Health stable – recovery in full swing!

Pope Francis: Health stable – recovery in full swing!

Vatican City, February 17, 2025 - Pope Francis' health remains stable and unchanged, Vatican spokesman Matteo Bruni announced on Monday. After a restful night, the 88-year-old slept well, had breakfast and read some newspapers. Medical treatments to relieve the bronchitis that brought him to the Gemelli Clinic are continuing. Despite his health, the Pope made another telephone call to the Catholic parish in Gaza on Sunday evening, something he has been doing regularly for months, reported Kathpress.

On Sunday, the Pope received the Eucharist and watched Mass on television. He alternated between periods of rest and reading newspapers, Bruni continued. However, a visit to the Roman film city Cinecittà planned for Monday had to be canceled, as did participation in the artists' New Year celebration, which is currently taking place in Rome. Instead of attending the Angelus prayer in person, Francis distributed a text thanking everyone for their support, especially medical staff Vatican News reported.

The events as part of the Holy Year of Art, which will take place in Rome from February 15th to 18th, will continue, even if Francis is not present. These solemn occasions included a special mass for artists, which the Pope was unable to preside over and at which he was represented by Curial Cardinal José Tolentino de Mendonça. The church hopes for the pope's speedy recovery so that it can continue to support him in his important role.