Pope Francis, the current head of the Catholic Church, is widely recognized as an advocate and justice for all. The pope has consistently spoken out against violence, inequality, and injustice, particularly those affecting young girls and women. While the pope has not changed the Catholic Church’s teaching on marriage, he has also shown support for the LGBTQ+ community.
The 88-year-old pope has had a history of several lung-related health issues. In his early years, he had part of a lung removed. On Feb. 14, 2025, Pope Francis was admitted to the Policlinico Agostino Gemelli Hospital, Rome, Italy. He suffered a bronchial spasm that caused him to inhale his vomit after a coughing fit. Bronchial spasms happen when the muscles that line your airways into your lungs tighten. Following later medical evaluations, the pope was diagnosed with double pneumonia in both lungs and anemia. Double pneumonia is an infection that affects both lungs that can cause inflammation and breathing difficulties, while anemia is a condition where the body does not have enough healthy red blood cells. The Vatican also reported a significant buildup of mucus in his airways.
During his hospitalization, Pope Francis underwent multiple diagnostic tests and treatments. Throughout the day, the pope received oxygen with a nasal tube and went through physiotherapy. At night, the pope has been sleeping with a non-invasive mechanical mask to ensure that his lungs expand properly.
Since his hospitalization, Pope Francis has not appeared in public. However, On Mar. 6, 2025, an audio recording of him speaking Spanish was played over St. Peter’s Square, Vatican City, “I thank you from the bottom of my heart for your prayers, for my health,” Francis said. “I accompany you from here. May God bless you and the Virgin protect you. Thank you.”
His hospitalization coincides with Lent, a Christian religious 40-day period of prayer, fasting, moderation, and self-denial in preparation for Easter. This year, Lent began on Wed, Mar. 5, 2025 and ends on Easter Sunday. Christians celebrate Ash Wednesday with ashes on their forehead, representing the individual belonging to Jesus Christ and that they are grieving and mourning for their sins. Despite the health challenges, the Holy See reported that Pope Francis was able to participate and receive ashes.
Pope Francis’ hospitalization has gained widespread concern from Catholics, especially since it coincides with Lent. Even those outside the Catholic faith have expressed worry about the pope’s health. Despite the pope’s health struggles, the pope’s message of gratitude and faith continues to resonate. Many remain hopeful and pray for his health and strength in these coming days.
