Pope Francis’ Health Steady as Millions Observe Ash Wednesday

As millions of Catholics worldwide marked Ash Wednesday with prayer, fasting, and reflection, Pope Francis remained in stable condition at Rome’s Gemelli Hospital, where he is receiving treatment for pneumonia in both lungs.

According to the Vatican’s morning update, the 86-year-old pontiff had a restful night, transitioning from mechanical ventilation to a high-flow oxygen tube. While unable to lead his usual General Audience at St. Peter’s Square, Francis released a prepared text, continuing his spiritual guidance from his hospital bed.

Ash Wednesday, which signals the beginning of Lent, is a sacred day for Catholics and other Christian denominations. Across the U.S. and beyond, worshippers lifted prayers for the Pope’s swift recovery, as speculation about his health and future leadership continues to swirl.

Despite earlier struggles with respiratory distress, the Vatican reassured that Francis remains alert and cooperative with treatment, showing no signs of respiratory failure or fever. He was hospitalized on Feb. 14 after battling bronchitis for over a week, which later progressed into a polymicrobial infection and mild renal insufficiency—both reportedly under control.

As Lent begins, the faithful remain hopeful for Pope Francis’ full recovery, while discussions persist about the Vatican’s contingency plans should his health decline further.