Pope Francis is currently receiving oxygen therapy following a recent respiratory crisis that left him in a "critical" condition, according to a statement from the Vatican. While doctors are being cautious about revealing the prognosis, an update on Sunday indicated that the Pope had not suffered any further respiratory issues since the initial incident.
The Pope, who has been unable to deliver the traditional Angelus prayer in person for the past two weeks, called on Catholics worldwide to pray for him. This request came as he continues to face health challenges, particularly related to his respiratory system. The Vatican disclosed that the pontiff is especially vulnerable to pneumonia, a risk heightened by his medical history, which includes pleurisy and a partial lung removal in his youth.
In a show of solidarity and support, cardinals currently in Rome will gather outside St. Peter’s Basilica at 21:00 local time on Monday to lead prayers for the Pope. This gathering will include members of the Vatican curia and clergy from the Diocese of Rome, who will recite the Rosary together each evening moving forward. Cardinal Parolin, the Vatican’s Secretary of State, will lead the prayers on Monday night.
Pope Francis, who hails from Argentina, made history as the first Latin American and first Jesuit pope when he was elected to lead the Roman Catholic Church. Throughout his 12-year papacy, he has faced various health challenges, including a bout of bronchitis earlier this year. The Vatican community and Catholics around the globe are now coming together in prayer for his recovery during this difficult time.