Pope Francis has been taken off mechanical ventilation as he continues to recover from double pneumonia, according to an announcement from the Vatican on Sunday. Despite improvements in his condition, his overall prognosis remains “guarded,” underscoring the serious nature of his health situation.

The Vatican confirmed that the 88-year-old pontiff is now stable and able to participate in activities within the hospital. He marked the occasion by attending Mass with his caregivers at Gemelli Hospital, where he has been receiving treatment since February 14. During this time, he has balanced his recovery with moments of prayer, by meeting with key members of the church hierarchy, including Secretary of State Cardinal Pietro Parolin and Archbishop Edgar Peña Parra, the Substitute Secretary of State. These routine meetings were conducted to discuss church matters and were not viewed as indicative of his current health status.

Current Medical Status

The Vatican has reported that “the Holy Father’s clinical condition remains stable,” clarifying that he did not require non-invasive mechanical ventilation. Instead, he is receiving high-flow oxygen therapy and shows no fever, suggesting positive progress in his recovery. His doctors report that his white blood cell count remains low, indicating no ongoing infections following the breathing crisis he experienced last Friday.

Further reports indicate that Francis has not shown any lingering effects from the crisis, which had raised concerns for both the Vatican and followers worldwide. The papal medical team has been closely monitoring his condition, and while there has been improvement, they remain cautious, emphasizing the need for continued care while his prognosis is described as guarded.

Pope Francis Expresses Gratitude Amid Recovery

During his hospitalization, Pope Francis reached out to the faithful with a written Sunday blessing, expressing profound gratitude for the support he has received from around the globe. “I am still sending you these thoughts from the hospital,” he stated, reflecting on his health struggles since his bronchitis escalated into severe pneumonia affecting both of his lungs.

“I feel in my heart the ‘blessing’ that is hidden within frailty, because it is precisely in these moments that we learn even more to trust in the Lord,” he wrote. He expressed his heartfelt appreciation for the prayers he has received, calling it a source of strength: “I feel your affection and closeness, and at this moment, I feel as though I am ‘carried’ and supported by all of God’s people.”

In a poignant appeal for global peace, Francis called attention to the ongoing conflicts around the world, expressing concern that from the perspective of his hospital bed, the senselessness of war has only become more apparent. He urged the faithful to pray for those caught in conflict in regions including Ukraine, Palestine, Israel, Lebanon, Myanmar, Sudan, and Kivu.

Ongoing Treatment Amidst Vatican Holy Year

As Francis remains under medical care, his hospitalization coincides with the Vatican’s Holy Year, which has attracted numerous pilgrims to St. Peter’s Basilica and Assisi. The pope, who had part of one lung removed in his youth and has battled lung disease in recent years, remains a central figure for many seeking spiritual guidance during this time.

On Saturday, the Vatican reported further on the pope’s medical condition, noting he was able to eat, drink, and even spend roughly 20 minutes in his private chapel, engaging in respiratory therapy. Despite such positive developments, Francis canceled his Sunday Angelus prayer for the third consecutive weekend, prioritizing his recovery over public engagements.

Francis was scheduled to address hospital staff and healthcare workers on Saturday, but he was unable to attend. Nevertheless, the pilgrimage and prayers for his recovery continued without him, reflecting the deep concern and hopes held by many for his health.