Pope Francis Marks 12th Anniversary of Papacy While Hospitalized for Pneumonia
The 88-year-old pontiff remains under care for a month-long battle with a severe lung infection but is showing gradual signs of improvement.
- Pope Francis has been hospitalized at Rome's Gemelli Clinic since February 14 due to a complicated bilateral pneumonia, marking his longest hospital stay as pontiff.
- Doctors report slow but steady progress in his recovery, though no discharge date has been announced.
- The Vatican confirmed the Pope spent his 12th anniversary as head of the Catholic Church in the hospital, receiving well-wishes from around the world.
- Medical staff celebrated the occasion with a cake, while the Pope participated in Vatican prayers and meditations via videoconference.
- Speculation has arisen about potential future medical care arrangements at his Vatican residence, though no official plans have been confirmed.