Pope Francis Remains Hospitalized With Stable Condition During Lent

The 88-year-old pontiff continues treatment for double pneumonia, with guarded prognosis as Catholics worldwide pray for his recovery.

Pope Francis has been hospitalized since February 14 for double pneumonia and continues to require oxygen therapy and non-invasive mechanical ventilation at night.
The Vatican reports his condition has stabilized over the past two days, though his prognosis remains guarded due to the complexity of his health issues, including chronic lung disease and mild renal insufficiency.
The pope marked Ash Wednesday from his hospital suite, receiving ashes and making a call to a Gaza parish priest, while Cardinal Angelo De Donatis led the traditional procession and service in Rome.
Doctors addressed recent respiratory crises, including bronchospasms earlier this week, but confirm no new episodes have occurred since Monday.
The pope has resumed limited work activities and physical therapy but remains absent from public appearances, his longest such absence since his papacy began.