Pope Francis's health crisis: Vatican on high alert
Pope Francis rested peacefully overnight, according to Wednesday's statement from the Vatican regarding the Pope's health condition.
Let us remember that the Pope has been treated for bilateral pneumonia since 14 February. The Vatican reported on Wednesday morning that he spent a peaceful night in the hospital.
On the night from Tuesday to Wednesday, non-invasive mechanical ventilation using an oxygen mask was applied. Vatican sources explained that this type of therapy allows for better rest.
The doctors still do not provide further forecasts, and describe the clinical condition as complex, warning that the threat has not passed.
Without Francis's presence, Ash Wednesday ceremonies will be held in Rome in the afternoon. A procession will occur from the church of St. Anselm to the Basilica of Saint Sabina, where the Penitentiary Major, Cardinal Angelo De Donatis, will lead the mass as the Pope’s delegate. The homily prepared by Francis will be read aloud.
Concerning reports from the Vatican. A leave restriction is in place
As recently as Monday, Pope Francis, who is hospitalised, had two episodes of acute respiratory failure. On Tuesday, the Vatican reported that the Pope slept through the night and continues to rest.
Vaticanist Michał Klosowski emphasises that although the Pope’s heart and mind function correctly, the rest of his body is encountering growing problems, as evident in the Holy See's statements.
- We must prepare for the fact that these are indeed the last days, hours, weeks, months, no one knows, of Pope Francis - he said on RMF24.
- A burial place is being prepared, work is underway in the chapel. The Swiss Guards and Gendarmerie have been restricted from taking leave for the foreseeable future, at least until Easter - said Klosowski.
