Pope Francis to Miss Sunday Angelus Prayer Due to Health Concerns

Vatican City: The Vatican Press Office announced on Saturday morning that Pope Francis will not be delivering the Sunday Angelus prayer in person, opting instead for a written text as he did last week. This decision follows medical advice requiring the pontiff to have absolute rest as he recovers from pneumonia.

According to Ansa News Agency, the Pope, who is currently hospitalized at the Agostino Gemelli Hospital in Rome, has been reported to be in stable condition but remains under close medical observation. Professor Sergio Alfieri, head of the medical team treating the Pope, emphasized that while the Pope is not in immediate life-threatening danger, his condition is serious and requires careful monitoring. The pontiff has been in good spirits despite his health challenges and has even been known to make jokes about his situation.

Pope Francis, 88, has not required the assistance of any breathing machines, though he occasionally uses oxygen. He is feeding himself and has been able to visit the chapel to
pray, indicating some level of recovery. The Pope’s primary health concern is a lung infection, with the risk of it leading to sepsis if germs were to enter his bloodstream. However, at present, the infection remains confined to his lungs.

In a related development, Vatican Secretary of State Cardinal Pietro Parolin dismissed rumors regarding the potential resignation of Pope Francis. In an interview with Corriere della Sera, Parolin labeled such discussions as “useless speculation” and emphasized that the focus should remain on the Pope’s health and recovery. Cardinal Parolin also noted that the Pope is receiving work documents, suggesting positive signs of recovery.

The Vatican and the Pope’s medical team continue to monitor his condition closely, with updates expected as necessary.