Pope Francis continues to make progress in his recovery after spending a full week in Rome’s Gemelli Hospital due to pneumonia in both lungs. The Vatican confirmed on Friday that the 88-year-old pontiff had another stable night and was able to get up for breakfast in the morning.

“The night went well, this morning Pope Francis got up and had breakfast,” the Vatican stated in its latest update, reassuring Catholics worldwide about his condition.

Initially admitted for bronchitis last Friday, the pope’s illness developed into pneumonia, raising widespread concerns. However, the Vatican has consistently reported steady improvement, noting that he remains fever-free and that his blood circulation remains stable.

Despite being under strict doctor’s orders for “absolute rest,” Pope Francis has continued working, keeping up with correspondence and engaging with his aides.

Hope for a Full Recovery
Cardinal Matteo Maria Zuppi, head of Italy’s bishops’ conference, expressed optimism about the pope’s health. “The fact that the pope had breakfast, read the newspapers, and received visitors means that we are on the right path to a full recovery, which we hope will happen soon,” he said.

Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni, who visited Francis on Wednesday, echoed similar sentiments, saying he was “alert” and even joking, proving he hasn’t lost his well-known sense of humor.

Prayers and Support for the Pope
As the pope continues his recovery, Catholic faithful have been gathering outside the Gemelli Hospital, lighting candles and placing photos in front of a statue of Pope John Paul II. The vicar general of the Diocese of Rome, Cardinal Baldassare Reina, has urged parishes across the capital to pray for Francis.

While his scheduled engagements for the week, including a Saturday audience and Sunday Mass at St. Peter’s Basilica, have been canceled, there is still uncertainty over whether he will lead the traditional Angelus prayer at midday on Sunday.

Pope Francis, who had part of one lung removed as a young man, has faced multiple health challenges in recent years, including bronchitis, knee and hip pain, and major surgeries. This marks his fourth hospital stay at Gemelli since 2021.

As he continues on the road to recovery, the Vatican remains hopeful that the pope will soon be able to return to his pastoral duties.