The Pope, who has been suffering from pneumonia and “rested well” with an oxygen mask, according to the Vatican, heightened fears by missing the start of Lent.
Since being admitted to Rome’s Gemelli Hospital on February 14 due to breathing difficulties, Pope Francis has experienced concerning respiratory episodes.
According to a morning medical update from the Vatican, the Pope had a restful night. On Tuesday, the Vatican reported that he had a peaceful day without any episodes.
He remained fever-free, “alert,” and responsive to his treatment, as stated in the evening bulletin.
However, the Argentine pope wore an oxygen mask overnight, and his prognosis “remains reserved.”
He will not lead the Ash Wednesday celebrations, which mark the beginning of Lent—the 40-day period before Easter commemorating Christ’s fasting in the desert.
Typically, the Pope leads the main service, scheduled for 1600GMT. In his absence, Italian Cardinal Angelo de Donatis will officiate the Mass, following a procession on Rome’s Aventine Hill.
Pope Francis also missed the Ash Wednesday celebrations in 2022 due to acute knee pain.
The Pope has not made a public appearance for nearly three weeks, with the most recent photos of him taken during private audiences just hours before his hospitalization.