Pope suffers bronchial issue; condition cautious, Vatican notes

In Rome, the health condition of Pope Francis took a concerning turn on Friday when he experienced a bronchial spasm, causing him to inhale vomit and necessitating the use of non-invasive mechanical ventilation, as reported by the Vatican. Despite being 88 years old, the Pope managed to stay alert and conscious, reacting positively with a proper exchange of gases even amid his ongoing struggle with double pneumonia over the past two weeks.

This unexpected development interrupted the progress of what seemed like a positive trajectory in the previous days, according to updates received from the medical team caring for him at Rome’s Gemelli hospital since February 14. The abrupt incident progressed in the early afternoon, worsening his respiratory conditions, leading doctors to remain cautiously optimistic about his recovery.

With Ash Wednesday approaching, the Vatican has already begun to arrange alternative plans, acknowledging the Pope’s need for further recovery time. Cardinal Angelo De Donatis, a Vatican official and former vicar of Rome, will lead the March 5 ceremony and procession, marking the commencement of the church’s Lenten season, which concludes with Easter in April.

Earlier that Friday, Pope Francis kept up his routine at the hospital, inclining between using high-flow oxygen and a mask while also engaging in prayer at the chapel. The Vatican detailed that he managed to have breakfast, read the day’s papers, and undergo respiratory physiotherapy. Despite the previous days of respiratory difficulties, descriptions of his condition as “critical” have been notably absent in recent medical briefings.

Globally, prayers for Pope Francis’ health and recovery continue. In Mexico City, gatherings were held where dozens of individuals came together to pray for him, reflecting the emotional connections many feel toward him. Araceli Gutiérrez shared a deep concern for his well-being, having seen him during his visit to Mexico in 2016. María Teresa Sánchez from Colombia expressed her personal connection to Francis due to his shared Latin American heritage.

Even though Pope Francis is showing signs of improvement, adjustments have been made to his short-term schedule. A Holy Year audience planned for Saturday was canceled, and it is uncertain whether he will miss his customary Sunday noon blessing for a third consecutive week. Tasks associated with Ash Wednesday are now assigned to a cardinal, with crucial religious observances set for Holy Week and Easter, which this year will culminate on April 20.

In previous years, during events such as Ash Wednesday and Holy Week, Pope Francis has limited his participation due to various illnesses like bronchitis and influenza. These events generally require him to be outdoors and active in leading services, processions, and prayers during the solemn observance of Christ’s crucifixion and resurrection.

Looking ahead, Pope Francis is anticipated to uphold several key commitments if his health permits. On April 27, he is scheduled to canonize Carlo Acutis, recognized as the first millennial saint, inspiring young Catholics around the world. Another significant engagement is slated for May 24 to commemorate the 1,700-year anniversary of the Council of Nicea, Christianity’s first ecumenical council, with an anticipated meeting with Patriarch Bartholomew I in Iznik, Turkey. Before falling ill, Pope Francis had expressed a desire to attend this symbolic event, although the Vatican has yet to confirm his participation.