As of February 14th, the Pope, or head of the worldwide Catholic church, was admitted to the hospital due to bronchitis and pneumonia. Pope Francis is in critical condition but has shown some slight improvements in his health. He is currently resting at Gemelli Hospital. He is suffering from double pneumonia.
Double pneumonia is when both of the lungs are filled with fluid or pus, which makes it hard to breathe, and it also increases the risk of heart disease and heart attacks. He has also been having trouble breathing and speaking.
Another update from the Holy See Press Office; they went to the hospital Pope Francis was staying at and checked up on his health. A medical care worker stated, “The Pope’s condition is stable with slight improvements thanks to respiratory and motor therapy. The Pope spent the day in prayer, resting, and doing some work.” It seems that the Pope’s health is getting increasingly better, and his mobility is increasing, but he is still in danger due to his condition.
The most recent update came from the Vatican on March 19th. Gabe Whisnant explained that Pope Francis no longer needs assistance breathing from his mask. His oxygen intake from machines has also decreased, showing signs of progress in his recovery. He has been said to have gone 2 nights without oxygen assistance, strengthening his lungs. On March 19th, Pope Francis was able to participate in the celebration of Mass, an important Catholic feast day.
According to The New York Times, two Vatican officials visited the Gemelli Hospital to meet the Pope. The Vatican explained that the reason was to get Pope Francis’ signature that, in the case of his death, it is approved to get more saints. Many people have found the interaction highly suspicious.
In the case of the Pope’s death, how would the Catholic church find a new pope? According to CNN, any Roman Catholic Man can become the Pope, but usually, they would be selected from the College of Cardinals. The entire group would have a private meeting to cast their vote on who should become Pope. The most voted man will then go on to serve for however long as possible; though some Popes must retire due to declining health.
The Pope does not work alone. Some bishops and archbishops, who are usually from the College of Cardinals, help the Pope. A bishop is a senior member of the Christian Clergy, while an archbishop is the chief bishop responsible for an archdiocese. The Pope does many things for the Catholic community. This includes making decisions on faith and morality for all Catholics. He also upholds church doctrines, promotes unity and charity, and appoints cardinals and bishops.
Currently, millions of Catholics around the world are praying for Pope Francis’ quick recovery.
Sources: Vatican News, New York Times, CNN
Pope no longer requires mechanical ventilation
Vatican Releases First Photo of Pope Francis Since He Was Hospitalized – The New York Times
First photo of Pope emerges since hospitalization | CNN