Pope Francis continues to recover in Rome’s Gemelli Hospital, where he set to spend his 11th night receiving treatment for double pneumonia.
The Pontiff was admitted to the hospital on February 14, and has undergone blood transfusions and other treatments after falling into a "critical" condition.
According to the latest update from the Holy See Press Office, the 88-year-old Pontiff has shown signs of improvement, though his doctors remain cautious about his overall prognosis.
"Slight Improvement" but Continued MonitoringDespite the severity of his condition, the Vatican reports that Pope Francis has not experienced any further episodes of asthma-like respiratory distress.
"The Holy Father's clinical condition, despite its severity, has shown a slight improvement," this evening's update read. "No episodes of asthma-like respiratory distress occurred today, and some laboratory tests have shown improvement. The monitoring of his mild kidney insufficiency has not raised any concerns."
"Oxygen therapy continues, although with slightly reduced flow and oxygen levels," the update continued.
Doctors remain guarded in their outlook, given the complexity of his health challenges, with the statement adding: "Given the complexity of the clinical picture, the doctors are prudently maintaining their cautious prognosis."
Maintaining His Spiritual CommitmentsEven while hospitalized, Pope Francis has continued his religious duties. On Sunday morning, he received the Eucharist in his hospital apartment, where he also celebrated Mass alongside his medical caregivers.
In a message shared over the weekend, the Pope expressed gratitude for the prayers and support he has received from around the world.
"I am confidently continuing my hospitalization at the Gemelli Hospital, carrying on with the necessary treatment; and rest is also part of the therapy," Pope Francis wrote.
He also thanked the doctors and hospital staff for their dedication, saying, "I sincerely thank the doctors and health workers of this hospital for the attention they are showing me and the dedication with which they carry out their service among the sick."
The Pope added that he had been especially touched by letters and drawings from children, acknowledging the widespread concern for his health.
A Personal Call to GazaOn Sunday evening, despite his condition, Pope Francis made a phone call to the parish priest of Gaza to express his "paternal closeness" amid the ongoing turmoil in the region.
The call was reportedly in response to a video sent by the Holy Family parish, with the Pope reaching out to personally thank them.
Clarification on Hospital RumorsIn addition to providing health updates, the Vatican also addressed rumors about a potential transfer to an apartment at Rome’s Isola Tiberina – Gemelli Isola Hospital.
Reports from a French media outlet suggested that a special apartment had been prepared for the Pope, but Vatican officials dismissed the claims, clarifying that the space is actually designated for private patients and not for the Pontiff.
Continued Global Concern and SupportPope Francis’ hospitalization has sparked an outpouring of prayers and well-wishes from Catholics and world leaders alike.
Among the messages was a handwritten note from Ecumenical Patriarch Bartholomew I, leader of the Orthodox Church, who addressed the Pope as his "beloved brother" and wished him a "swift and complete recovery."
While the Pope remains under careful medical supervision, tonight's update will no doubt come as one of hope for many.