Pope is resting after another ‘quiet night,’ the Vatican says

After three weeks of hospitalisation for bilateral bronchitis, Pope Francis remains stable. In a brief update on Thursday morning, the Vatican press room reported that he had has ‘a quiet night’ and was still resting.

In Wednesday evening’s bulletin, Vatican sources reported that he had no episodes of respiratory failure. The Pope underwent high-flow oxygen therapy and non-invasive mechanical ventilation during the night.

His prognosis reportedly remains reserved as he continues respiratory physiotherapy combined with active motor therapy.

The 88-year-old Pope has chronic lung disease and had part of one lung removed as a young man.

On Ash Wednesday, the Holy Father participated in the rite of blessing of the Holy Ashes and received the Eucharist.

Pope at work during his hospitalisation

Despite his hospitalisation, the pontiff is still carrying out various work activities. Vatican sources reported that on Wednesday morning, Francis had a telephone conversation with Father Gabriel Romanelli, parish priest of the Holy Family in Gaza. In the afternoon, he alternated rest and work.