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Pope Francis' health update: Pontiff unable to lead the Ash Wednesday Mass

The global Catholic community has rallied in prayer and support

Senior Writer

UPDATED MARCH 5, 2025 1:57 PM ESTMAR 5, 2025, 1:57 PM EST

Pope Francis, the beloved 88-year-old pontiff, has been on quite the health journey lately, and it's been a rollercoaster of emotions for Catholics worldwide.

It all started on February 14, when Pope Francis was admitted to Rome's Gemelli Hospital due to bronchitis. Things took a turn when he developed a polymicrobial infection, leading to bilateral pneumonia—a fancy term for pneumonia in both lungs. Given his history of lung issues (he had part of a lung removed in his youth), this was particularly concerning.

Recent Developments

Fast-forward to today, March 5. The Vatican reports that Pope Francis had a restful night and woke up just after 8 a.m. local time. His clinical condition remains stable, with no new respiratory crises.

He has transitioned from non-invasive mechanical ventilation at night to high-flow oxygen therapy during the day. This means he's getting the oxygen support he needs while being more comfortable.

The Road Ahead

While these updates are encouraging, the situation remains delicate. The Vatican maintains a "guarded prognosis," indicating that while he's stable, caution is still warranted.

The Community's Response

The global Catholic community has rallied in prayer and support. On March 4, Cardinal Arthur Roche led a rosary recited in St. Peter's Square, emphasizing the collective hope for the Pope's recovery.

BUENOS AIRES, ARGENTINA - FEBRUARY 24: Catholic faithful carry images of Pope Francis at an outdoor mass to pray for him on February 24, 2025 in Buenos Aires, Argentina. Born in Buenos Aires and the first Pope ever chosen from the Americas, Pope Francis was hospitalized in Rome on February 14 with bronchitis, and was subsequently treated for a respiratory tract infection. The Vatican confirmed on Monday that the pope is still in critical condition but he could sleep, wake up and eat. (Photo by John Moore/Getty Images)

In His Absence

As Pope Francis continues his recovery, the Vatican has adjusted its schedule. For instance, Cardinal Angelo De Donatis will lead the Ash Wednesday Mass at the Basilica of Santa Sabina, a role traditionally held by the Pope.

A Testimony to Resilience

Throughout this ordeal, Pope Francis has exemplified resilience and faith. His followers continue to have him in their thoughts and prayers, hoping for his swift and full recovery.

VATICAN - 2025/02/09: Pope Francis presides over a Mass for the Jubilee of the Armed Forces in St. Peter's Square. (Photo by Stefano Costantino/SOPA Images/LightRocket via Getty Images)

In February, Pope Francis shared his first public message following his hospitalization. He took to X, addressing Catholics from all over the world. "I have recently received many messages of affection, and I have been particularly struck by the letters and drawings from children," wrote the Pope. "Thank you for your closeness, and for the consoling prayers I have received from all over the world!"

"I urge you to continue your apostolate with joy and to be a sign of a love that embraces everyone, as the Gospel Of The Day suggests," he wrote in a separate post. "May we transform evil into goodness and build a fraternal world. Do not be afraid to take risks for love!"

Note: This information is based on the latest updates as of March 5, 2025. For the most recent news, always refer to official Vatican communications.