Pope rests well, drinks coffee, and reads newspapers as pneumonia treatment progresses

Pope Francis spent a restful night at Rome’s Gemelli Hospital and began his daily treatments after waking Monday morning, having breakfast with coffee and reading newspapers as part of his normal routine, according to Vatican sources.

“Pope Francis slept well throughout the night,” the Holy See Press Office said Monday morning. A further update on the Pope’s condition is expected Monday evening.

The Pope’s condition remains stable, with Vatican sources reporting that his bilateral pneumonia is neither worsening nor causing immediate concern. No special examinations beyond routine daily tests are currently scheduled.

The latest update followed a Sunday evening statement indicating the Pope’s condition remained stable. On Sunday, Pope Francis participated in Holy Mass with those caring for him during his hospitalization. He spent the rest of the day alternating between rest and prayer.

The Press Office noted that he had not required “non-invasive mechanical ventilation,” as he had in recent days, but was still receiving supplemental high-flow oxygenation. It also stated that the Holy Father continues to be afebrile, meaning he does not have a fever.

No direct consequences from the bronchospasm the Pope experienced on Friday are evident; however, there is still a possibility his condition could deteriorate.

Recovery for the 88-year-old Holy Father “will certainly not be imminent,” Vatican officials cautioned, indicating a potentially extended hospital stay as the Pope continues to receive medical care.

Regarding the upcoming spiritual exercises scheduled for next Sunday, Vatican sources stated that no decisions have been made about how the Pope might participate in these Lenten observances.

The faithful will gather in St. Peter’s Square this evening to pray for the Pope’s recovery. Cardinal Robert Francis Prevost, prefect of the Dicastery for Bishops, will lead the recitation of the Holy Rosary at 9 p.m.

With files from Vatican News and Marco Mancini.

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