Pope Francis has cancelled his weekend appearances, including a celebration for deacons and a Sunday mass, as he continues to receive treatment for a complex respiratory infection in a Rome hospital.
Pope Francis Suffers Health Setbacks, Missing Key Events
Pope Francis Suffers Health Setbacks, Missing Key Events
The Vatican confirms that Pope Francis is absent from scheduled events due to a respiratory infection and ongoing health issues.
In a concerning update from the Vatican, Pope Francis is currently hospitalized with a “polymicrobial respiratory tract infection,” preventing his participation in significant events this coming weekend. Admitted to Policlinico A. Gemelli, the Pope's condition was deemed complex after thorough medical examinations. Despite this, officials reported that he remains stable and fever-free.
The Vatican’s announcement clarified that Francis would forgo an audience with deacons scheduled for Saturday and has appointed a Vatican prelate to preside over Sunday Mass in his place. This decision follows his recent inability to attend an artists’ event the previous week.
Historically, this marks the fourth hospitalization for Francis at Gemelli. Previously, he underwent colon surgery in 2021, while he dealt with respiratory issues in 2023 that led to a brief hospitalization. He has also had surgeries for a hernia and has undergone diverse diagnostic tests this past year related to flu-like symptoms. His medical history is notable, as he once had the upper lobe of his right lung removed and remains susceptible to respiratory ailments during winter.
Since the commencement of the 2025 Jubilee—a year emphasizing faith and forgiveness—the Pope’s schedule has intensified, attracting millions of pilgrims to the Vatican. As health conditions remain a critical concern, the Vatican will continue to provide updates on his recovery and public engagements.
Elisabetta Povoledo is a seasoned journalist based in Rome, specializing in Italian and Vatican news.
The Vatican’s announcement clarified that Francis would forgo an audience with deacons scheduled for Saturday and has appointed a Vatican prelate to preside over Sunday Mass in his place. This decision follows his recent inability to attend an artists’ event the previous week.
Historically, this marks the fourth hospitalization for Francis at Gemelli. Previously, he underwent colon surgery in 2021, while he dealt with respiratory issues in 2023 that led to a brief hospitalization. He has also had surgeries for a hernia and has undergone diverse diagnostic tests this past year related to flu-like symptoms. His medical history is notable, as he once had the upper lobe of his right lung removed and remains susceptible to respiratory ailments during winter.
Since the commencement of the 2025 Jubilee—a year emphasizing faith and forgiveness—the Pope’s schedule has intensified, attracting millions of pilgrims to the Vatican. As health conditions remain a critical concern, the Vatican will continue to provide updates on his recovery and public engagements.
Elisabetta Povoledo is a seasoned journalist based in Rome, specializing in Italian and Vatican news.
