Pope Francis remains hospitalized with lung infection as Vatican begins prayer vigils in St. Peter’s Square

The Vatican has announced the start of nightly prayer vigils for the recovery of Pope Francis, who has been hospitalized at the Gemelli Hospital in Rome since February 14 due to bilateral pneumonia. The first collective prayer will take place this Monday (24th) at 9 p.m. local time (5 p.m. Brasília time) in St. Peter’s Square. The event will be led by Cardinal Pietro Parolin, the Vatican’s Secretary of State. The initiative recalls the vigils held in 2005 before the passing of Saint John Paul II and underscores concerns about the health of the 88-year-old pontiff.

The announcement of the prayers has led hundreds of faithful to gather in the square, lighting candles as a sign of faith and hope for the Pope’s recovery. The Holy See has encouraged Romans, tourists, and religious people from different parts of the world to participate. On the same day, at the Gemelli Hospital, a special mass was held by Bishop Claudio Giulio Dori in the John Paul II Chapel, bringing together about 200 worshippers in a moment of deep emotion.

Believers and Catholic leaders worldwide have expressed their support for Pope Francis, organizing prayer chains and religious events. In Brazil, several dioceses have promoted special celebrations to pray for the Pope’s recovery. The Archdiocese of Rio de Janeiro has instructed all parishes to include petitions for the Holy Father in their masses, reinforcing the global mobilization for the leader of the Catholic Church.

Medical history and condition progress

Pope Francis was admitted to the hospital after his bronchitis worsened, developing into bilateral pneumonia. According to Vatican medical reports, the infection is polymicrobial and presents a complexity that requires continuous adjustments to his medication therapy. In addition to the respiratory condition, recent tests have indicated the onset of mild kidney failure, which is currently under control.

Despite the severity of his condition, the Pope has responded positively to some treatments. Doctors have reported that he continues to receive oxygen therapy at a reduced flow and has not had any further respiratory crises since Sunday (23rd). However, due to his advanced age and medical history, his condition continues to require intensive monitoring. He remains conscious and alert, although weakened, and has resumed reading and signing documents within the limitations imposed by his illness.

Medical reports are being released cautiously by the Vatican, which maintains confidentiality regarding specific treatment details. On Sunday, Pope Francis himself thanked the public for their prayers and emphasized the importance of rest as part of his treatment. This marks the second consecutive week in which he has not participated in the traditional Angelus prayer, a gathering that usually attracts thousands of worshippers to St. Peter’s Square.

Key facts about Pope Francis’ health:

• Age: 88 years old
• Hospitalization date: February 14, 2025
• Diagnosis: Bilateral pneumonia and mild kidney failure
• Current condition: Stable but critical, requiring constant monitoring
• Treatment: Oxygen therapy and adjusted antibiotics based on clinical progression
• Allowed activities: Reading and signing documents for short periods

International response and religious mobilization

News of Pope Francis’ hospitalization has stirred emotions globally, prompting prayers in various parts of the world. Religious leaders from different faiths have sent messages of support to the pontiff. In Assisi, Italy, Franciscan friars held a special mass for his recovery. In the Sanctuary of Fatima, Portugal, worshippers gathered in a candlelit procession, recalling similar moments during critical periods of previous papacies.

In Brazil, parishes nationwide have hosted prayer vigils. In Aparecida, São Paulo, the National Basilica dedicated a mass to the Pope, bringing together thousands of devotees. In Argentina, the Pope’s home country, Buenos Aires Metropolitan Cathedral organized a special event to pray for his health, highlighting the local community’s deep affection for their fellow countryman.

The impact has also been felt in political and diplomatic circles. Italy’s President Sergio Mattarella has expressed solidarity with the Vatican, as have leaders from Catholic-majority countries such as Spain, France, and the Philippines. The White House issued a statement wishing the Pope a speedy recovery, while UN Secretary-General António Guterres acknowledged Francis’ critical leadership on humanitarian issues.

Pope Francis’ health history

Francis has faced health challenges since his youth when he had part of his right lung removed due to a severe infection. This factor has always required greater medical attention to respiratory illnesses. Since becoming Pope in 2013, he has undergone several hospitalizations and medical procedures, including intestinal surgery in 2021 and previous stays at the Gemelli Hospital.

• 2013: Elected Pope, initiating a papacy focused on reform and closer ties with the faithful
• 2021: Underwent intestinal surgery to remove part of the colon due to stenosis
• 2023: Hospitalized for a respiratory infection, later recovering without major complications
• 2025: Current hospitalization for bilateral pneumonia and mild kidney failure

The Vatican has refrained from disclosing detailed prognostic information, stating only that the medical team remains committed to the pontiff’s recovery.

Timeline of recent events

1. February 14, 2025 – Pope Francis is admitted to Gemelli Hospital following the worsening of bronchitis.
2. February 17, 2025 – The Vatican reports that the Pope has a polymicrobial infection, complicating his condition.
3. February 21, 2025 – A medical report indicates slight improvement, with the Pope resuming some basic activities under supervision.
4. February 23, 2025 – The Pope skips the Angelus prayer for the second consecutive Sunday, thanks the public for their prayers, and confirms he is undergoing treatment.
5. February 24, 2025 – The Vatican announces prayer vigils in St. Peter’s Square, drawing large crowds of worshippers praying for his health.

Key data on the Catholic Church and the impact of the Pope’s health

• Global Catholic population: Approximately 1.36 billion followers
• Countries with the largest Catholic populations: Brazil (123 million), Mexico (98 million), Philippines (85 million)
• Average age of Popes at death: 78 years
• Last Popes who died in hospital: John Paul II (2005), Pius XII (1958)

The global Catholic community continues to monitor developments in Pope Francis’ health, joining in prayers and demonstrations of faith. Meanwhile, St. Peter’s Square remains the center of devotion, with thousands gathering nightly for prayer vigils. The next medical updates will determine the direction of his treatment and the expectations for his recovery.