Pope Francis experienced two acute respiratory episodes and has been placed back on noninvasive mechanical ventilation, as announced by the Vatican. This recent setback adds to his ongoing struggle with a complex respiratory infection and pneumonia, which has persisted for over two weeks. The Vatican reported that these episodes stemmed from a significant build-up of mucus in his lungs, which required two bronchoscopies to remove.
Despite these challenges, the 88-year-old Pope remains alert and engaged with medical staff, although his overall prognosis remains uncertain. Earlier on the same day, he shared a message from the hospital, urging Vatican officials to let his voice be heard following a prolonged absence from public engagements. In his note, he lamented the diminishing effectiveness of international organisations in addressing issues of war, reinforcing his concerns amidst his recovery at Rome’s Gemelli Hospital.
The Vatican has not released any visual updates during his treatment, marking this as the longest absence of his papacy. Nevertheless, they have provided regular medical bulletins about his condition, indicating he has been active, signing official documents and participating in therapies.
A close friend of the Pope, Archbishop Vincenzo Paglia, voiced the need for Francis’s public presence, particularly during global crises. Paglia highlighted the Pope’s universal perspective on peace, especially relevant as conflicts persist, notably in Ukraine. Francis’s previous communications have consistently underscored the importance of sustained efforts for global peace, while also maintaining a neutral diplomatic stance in sensitive areas like the conflict between Israel and Hamas.
Notably, concerns surrounding the Pope’s health highlight the public’s appreciation for his role as a voice for peace in tumultuous times. Vatican officials and numerous clerical figures emphasised that his remarks carry significant weight, especially as tensions rise in Europe.
While Francis’s current 17-night hospital stay is substantial, it does not surpass the record-length hospitalisations of his predecessor, St John Paul II. As the world watches and waits for his recovery, the call for his voice to resonate once more in the face of ongoing global turmoil remains urgent.