ROMAN EVENTS: Pope Francis, grappling with double pneumonia, remained hospitalized and in critical condition at Rome’s Gemelli hospital on Wednesday, as people around the globe offered prayers for his swift recovery. The Vatican continued its operations amid the pope’s illness, announcing new bishops and a fundraising initiative despite his absence.
The Vatican anticipated results from a CT scan performed Tuesday to evaluate his lung infection. The 88-year-old pope, with a history of chronic lung issues, was admitted after a worsened bout of bronchitis. Although still at risk, he had a stable night on Tuesday and was seen sitting in his armchair receiving therapy. Doctors reported that he had no further respiratory crises since Saturday.
Pope Francis continued working from his hospital room, with Vatican bureaucratic matters proceeding without interruption. On Wednesday, the Vatican declared the appointment of four new bishops and introduced a new fundraising entity for the financially struggling Holy See. These initiatives were approved prior to his hospitalization but were formally announced, demonstrating his continued governance.
Outside the hospital, well-wishers gathered, lighting candles and leaving messages at the statue of St. John Paul II, a testament to the global support for the pope. Church groups in Rome for the Vatican’s Holy Year also converged at the site to express their solidarity. Bishop Gerardo Villalonga of Menorca, Spain, led a group of 50 pilgrims to be near the pope, emphasizing the importance of community support during illness.
Additionally, Cardinal Giovanni Battista Re, dean of the College of Cardinals, led a prayer vigil in St. Peter’s Square, highlighting his influential role in potential future conclaves. Cardinal Re, who has been a significant figure within the Vatican, was appointed dean in 2020 and had his term extended by Pope Francis.
Meanwhile, in Rome’s Argentine church, community members held a special Mass led by Cardinal Baldassarre Reina to pray for the pope. Rev. Fernando Laguna expressed hopes for the pope to feel the community’s support despite their physical separation due to medical protocols.
Sister Nilda Trejo, an Argentine nun, noted the pope’s persistent health challenges, including problems with speech and breathing, and emphasized their prayers for his well-being. These events unfolded as the faithful united worldwide, sending spiritual and emotional support to Pope Francis in his time of need.
