VATICAN CITY, Rome — Pope Francis remains in serious but stable condition as he marks a week in the hospital battling pneumonia alongside chronic bronchitis, his medical team reported Friday, February 21, 2025, evening.
The 88-year-old pontiff is expected to remain hospitalized at Rome’s Gemelli Hospital for at least another week as doctors continue monitoring his recovery.
Medical Update: “Not Out of Danger, But Not in Danger of Death”
This is the first in-person update delivered by Francis’ doctors since he was admitted on February 14 with worsening respiratory issues.
Initially diagnosed with a complex bacterial and viral infection that developed into pneumonia in both lungs, the pope has been placed on “absolute rest” and is receiving oxygen support intermittently as part of intensified drug therapy.
Vatican spokesperson Matteo Bruni provided clarity on the pope’s condition on Thursday saying, “Is he out of danger? No. But if the question is ‘Is he in danger of death,’ the answer is ‘No.'”
Bruni confirmed that while Francis remains fever-free, his blood circulation and vital signs are stable, and he is breathing without mechanical assistance.
The pope has continued engaging in limited duties, including bishop appointments and a meeting with Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni, who noted that he “joked around as always.”
However, medical staff remain cautious.
Given Francis’ history of lung complications—including pleurisy that led to the partial removal of one lung as a young man—his vulnerability to respiratory infections remains high.
Resignation Speculation: Will Pope Francis Step Down?
As Francis’ hospitalization extends, speculation over a possible resignation has resurfaced among Vatican insiders.
Cardinal Jean-Marc Aveline, the archbishop of Marseille, acknowledged the uncertainty, saying: “Everything is possible.”
Similarly, Cardinal Gianfranco Ravasi told Italian radio RTL 102.5 that if Francis’ ability to engage with people were permanently compromised, he might “decide to resign.”
However, Vatican analyst Giovanni Maria Vian, former editor of L’Osservatore Romano, dismissed immediate concerns, stating:
“I think the dictum of ‘A pope is fine until he’s dead’ is always true… It represents, on one hand, the traditional skepticism of Romans and Italians, but on the other hand, an informational opacity.”
Francis’ Position on Papal Retirement
While Pope Francis has previously acknowledged the possibility of resigning — especially following the precedent set by Pope Benedict XVI — he has consistently reaffirmed his commitment to serving as pope for life.
In 2022, he disclosed that he had written a resignation letter early in his papacy in case of medical incapacitation.
However, there is currently no provision in canon law outlining steps for a pope who becomes unable to perform his duties.
For now, despite his extended hospital stay, Francis continues to perform his role in a limited capacity, and the Vatican has made no official indication that he is considering resignation.
What Happens Next?
With doctors confirming that Pope Francis will remain hospitalized through at least next week, Vatican officials will continue monitoring his response to treatment.
While the pope’s condition has shown slight improvement, his medical team remains focused on preventing further complications.
The coming days will be crucial in determining whether his health stabilizes enough for a return to the Apostolic Palace or if longer-term medical decisions will be necessary.
