Pope Francis is battling a severe cold – health concerns concern!

Pope Francis is battling a severe cold – health concerns concern!

Pope Francis is once again battling a severe cold that prevented him from speaking in person during his weekly general audience at the Vatican. Instead, a priest read the prepared speech. “It's difficult for me to speak with this bad cold,” explained the 88-year-old and had to sit in a wheelchair. The Pope's poor health had already led to changes in his program in the past, especially in the cold winter months, which put a lot of strain on his respiratory system Krone.at reported.

Benedict XVI's health

The health situation of Pope Emeritus Benedict XVI, who at 95 remains in a serious but stable condition, is a cause for concern. According to an official Vatican statement, Benedict slept well that night and was able to attend mass in his room. Pope Francis on Wednesday called on believers to pray for his predecessor, sparking a wave of sympathy around the world. Benedict has lived in the “Mater Ecclesiae” monastery since his resignation in 2013 and suffers from severe breathing problems. The Vatican confirmed that the pope emeritus is spiritually present, but his health remains critical Vatican News reports.

The illnesses of both church leaders shed light on the vulnerable phase of the Catholic Church. Francis, considered the second oldest pope in history, was once again reminded of the importance of praying for the sick as well as younger members of the church and hoping that they can recover soon.