The Vatican issued an urgent statement on Saturday evening, confirming that Pope Francis is in critical conditionafter experiencing a prolonged respiratory crisis due to asthma, requiring high-flow oxygen support to maintain his breathing.

A Life-and-Death Struggle at Gemelli Hospital

The 88-year-old Pontiff has been hospitalized at Rome’s Gemelli Hospital for over a week due to severe pneumonia and a complex lung infection. In addition to respiratory distress, the Pope has also undergone blood transfusionsafter tests revealed low platelet counts, a sign of anemia, according to Vatican sources.

His condition has become increasingly concerning as doctors warn of the potential onset of sepsis, a life-threatening complication of pneumonia. If bacteria from his respiratory system enter the bloodstream, it could lead to multi-organ failure and pose a severe risk to his life.

Pope Remains Conscious but in Increasing Pain

According to a Vatican statement, Pope Francis remains alert and has spent much of the day sitting in a chair, but he is experiencing more pain than the day before. Medical experts have indicated that his prognosis remains uncertainand that the danger is far from over.

Dr. Sergio Alfieri, head of medicine and surgery at Gemelli Hospital, held a press conference on Friday to provide a detailed update on the Pope’s condition.

“The greatest risk at this moment is that bacteria from his respiratory system could enter the bloodstream, causing sepsis. Given his respiratory issues and his age, if that happens, it will be extremely difficult to recover,”Alfieri warned.

“The Pope is aware of the danger,” Alfieri added. “He has asked us to communicate this truthfully.”

Resignation Rumors Dismissed by the Vatican

As Pope Francis’ health remains fragile, speculation has emerged regarding the possibility of his resignation if his condition does not improve.

However, the Vatican has swiftly denied these rumors. Cardinal Pietro Parolin, the Vatican’s Secretary of State, gave a rare interview with Corriere della Sera to clarify the situation.

“At this moment, the most important thing is not speculation about resignation but rather focusing on the Pope’s health and recovery,” Parolin emphasized.

He also dismissed claims that a secret meeting took place at the hospital between Vatican officials to discuss a potential resignation. “These rumors are completely unfounded and have no basis in reality.”

Vatican’s Schedule Disrupted by the Pope’s Health Crisis

Pope Francis’ absence has led to disruptions in the Vatican’s schedule, particularly regarding the Holy Year celebrations, a major event that occurs every 25 years in Catholic tradition.

Originally, the Pope was scheduled to preside over a special Mass for deacons this weekend, a ministry in the Church that precedes priestly ordination. However, due to his deteriorating health, the head of the Holy Year organizing committee will take his place.

Additionally, the Vatican confirmed that for the second consecutive Sunday, the Pope will not deliver his traditional noon blessing. Although he could have addressed the faithful from his hospital room, he is reportedly too weak to do so.

Global Catholic Community Prays for the Pope

At St. Peter’s Square, thousands of worshippers have gathered to pray for Pope Francis. Many have expressed deep concern, yet they remain hopeful for his recovery.

Luis Arnaldo López Quirindongo, a deacon from Ponce, Puerto Rico, shared his sentiments:

“Even though he is not physically here, we know he is with us. He is recovering, and he remains in our hearts as we unite in prayer for him.”

Doctors continue to closely monitor the Pope’s condition. The Vatican has assured the public that every possible medical intervention is being employed, yet his road to recovery remains an uphill battle.

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Updates on Pope Francis’ health will continue to be provided by the Vatican in the coming days. The global Catholic community watches and prays for the Holy Father’s recovery.

(Source: AP)