Pope Francis faced another health crisis on February 28, 2025, during his 15th day of hospitalization at the Gemelli Polyclinic. Medical reports indicated he experienced a bronchospasm followed by vomiting, prompting acute respiratory deterioration. According to the Vatican press office, "the Holy Father was immediately bronchoaspirated and commenced non-invasive mechanical ventilation, showing good gas exchange responses." Despite this alarming turn of events, he has not been intubated and remains conscious and cooperative with medical staff.
Earlier, the Pope had participated in respiratory physiotherapy and prayer. This occurrence has raised concerns about his health, with Vatican sources stating it will take 24 to 48 hours to assess whether the crisis has worsened his overall condition. The measures taken today were unprecedented during his current hospitalization, marking the first time he required mechanical ventilation support.
The 88-year-old pontiff has been treated for bronchitis complicated by bilateral pneumonia since February 14. The recent health update suggests the previous optimism surrounding his recovery was premature, as the situation remains precarious. The Vatican had previously reported improvement signs following his respiratory therapy sessions and normal observation.
During his treatment, the Pope received Holy Communion and continued to engage with his responsibilities, even sending messages to participants of liturgical courses at the Pontifical Athenaeum Sant'Anselmo, where he emphasized the importance of humility during liturgical celebrations. "I urge you to promote and favor liturgical styles expressing Jesus’ discipleship, avoiding unnecessary pomp or personalism," he stated.
Cardinal Angelo De Donatis has been appointed to lead Ash Wednesday celebrations, marking the beginning of Lent, on March 5, as it was judged impossible for Pope Francis to participate due to his health issues. The liturgical events will take place at the Church of Sant'Anselmo before processing to Santa Sabina Basilica for the Liturgy of the Imposition of Ashes.
Given his prolonged hospitalization and the complexity of his condition, this situation emphasizes the risks he faces due to complications linked to his prior illnesses. Earlier this week, he exited the most severe phase of treatment; yet, the bronchospasm crisis has underscored the continuous vigilance required from the medical team overseeing his care.
Various pilgrims and followers continue to pray for him outside the hospital, adhering to the faith and traditions strongly associated with the papacy. The previous medical bulletins also indicated some levels of improvement, but, as reiterated by Vatican representatives, the prognosis remains reserved.
Latest updates from the Vatican confirm the Pope's medical team has scheduled new assessments to understand the full impact of today’s crisis. Observations earlier had also conveyed stability signs, but the challenges inherent to the Pope's age and pre-existing respiratory complications indicate he is not yet out of danger.
The situation has unfolded during one of the most significant times of the year for Catholics, with Lent marking the lead-up to Easter being traditionally marked by piety and reflection. The absence of Pope Francis during this period is notable, particularly with the centrality of his leadership during such observations.
Should the prognosis remain unfavorable, it may not only impact Pope Francis's immediate public engagements but could also reverberate throughout the Church’s leadership and broader Catholic community. For now, faithful worldwide are urged to keep him and the medical staff tending to him in their prayers.
The Vatican remains dedicated to transparency about the Pope’s condition and has indicated there will be updates as the medical team continues to evaluate his health. People around the globe are anxiously waiting for news about the leader's recovery, as his messages and guidance are highly valued during these challenging times.
Reports surrounding his health also remind us of the fragility of life and the importance of maintaining collective hope within the faith community as they unite for his recovery.