Rome, Feb. 23, 2025 – Pope Francis, 88, spent a calm night recovering at Gemelli Hospital after struggling with a grave respiratory crisis brought about by pneumonia and a complex lung infection, the Vatican affirmed on Sunday.

After a severe asthmatic attack on Saturday, the pope needed high-flow oxygen therapy and blood transfusions because of a low platelet level. Although his condition was critical, physicians said that Francis was alert and spent most of the day in an armchair, although in greater pain than the day before.

Doctors warn that the biggest risk for recovery for the pope is sepsis, a blood infection that can be deadly. But at least through Friday, doctors reported that they could see no sign of sepsis, and the pope was recovering well.

Vatican Denies Resignation Speculation

When concern over Francis’ health emerged, officials in the Vatican hurried to dispel rumors over the possibility of his resignation. Cardinal Pietro Parolin, the Secretary of State, brushed off rumors in an interview, asserting that the negotiations over the pope’s resignation were “unnecessary” and his recovery required attention.

Francis has already confirmed that he had signed a resignation letter in case he was medically incapacitated. But Vatican officials are asserting that he is fully aware, engaged, and actively working from his hospital bed.

Holy Year Events Continue Without the Pope

In his stead, however, the Vatican Holy Year events proceeded on schedule, as deacons gathered in Rome for their special weekend ceremonies. Francis, who originally was to lead Sunday Mass, was replaced by a Holy Year organizer.

The pope also skipped his usual Sunday noon blessing for the second consecutive weekend. Although he could have addressed the faithful from his hospital bed, Vatican officials said he prioritized rest.

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