VATICAN CITY – Pope Francis experienced a bronchial spasm on Friday, causing him to breathe in vomit and require non-invasive mechanical ventilation, marking a setback in his two-week battle with double pneumonia, the Vatican announced.
The 88-year-old pope responded well to treatment, maintaining a good level of gas exchange, and remained conscious and alert, the Vatican said in a late update.
The incident, which occurred in the early afternoon, led to a sudden worsening of his respiratory condition, prompting doctors to keep his prognosis guarded. The episode disrupted two days of increasingly positive reports from medical staff at Rome’s Gemelli hospital, where he has been treated since February 14.
Altered Schedule for Ash Wednesday and Easter
The Vatican has already made alternative arrangements for Ash Wednesday, with Cardinal Angelo De Donatis set to lead the March 5 ceremony that marks the start of Lent.
Despite previous improvements, Francis’ upcoming events remain uncertain, including his Sunday noon blessing, which he may miss for the third consecutive week.
His Holy Year audience for Saturday has been cancelled, and concerns remain over his participation in Holy Week and Easter services, which fall on April 20.
In the past, the pope has limited participation in cold-weather religious events due to bronchitis and influenza.
Prayers Pour in for Pope’s Recovery
The pope’s health struggles have prompted prayer gatherings worldwide. In Mexico City, a group assembled at the cathedral to pray for his recovery.
Araceli Gutiérrez, recalling her 2016 encounter with the pope, said, “He is like part of the family.”
María Teresa Sánchez, a Colombian visitor, expressed deep admiration, calling Francis “a humble person who has done so much for religion.”
Key Upcoming Events in Doubt
Despite his illness, Francis is expected to preserve significant commitments if his health allows. Notable upcoming events include the April 27 canonisation of Carlo Acutis, set to become the first millennial saint.
On May 24, Francis is scheduled to attend the 1,700th anniversary of the Council of Nicaea in Iznik, Turkey, alongside Orthodox Patriarch Bartholomew I.
The event symbolises a historic step toward Catholic-Orthodox reconciliation, though the Vatican has yet to confirm the pope’s attendance following his illness.
