“As in the past days, the night passed peacefully, and the Pope is now resting.” This is what the Holy See Press Office reports in the update of this morning, February 28, on the state of health of the Pontiff, who has been hospitalized in the “Agostino Gemelli” Polyclinic since February 14.

After waking up this morning, the Pope had breakfast and read the newspapers regularly. He continues the prescribed therapy, including respiratory physiotherapy.

The Ash Wednesday rites at the Aventine (Rome), next March 5, will be presided over by Major Penitentiary Cardinal Angelo De Donatis.

In the bulletin released yesterday afternoon, Francis’ condition was described as “improving”, alternating high-flow oxygen therapy with the vent mask. However, more days of clinical stability are needed to resolve the prognosis. Yesterday morning was spent between respiratory physiotherapy and rest, in the afternoon prayer in the chapel of the private apartment, and work activities. According to what was learned, the Pope has left the most critical phase, but the situation remains complex, and therefore the prognosis remains reserved.

Update February 28, 2025, 12:00 hrs