Is Pope Francis Sick? What’s Next for Catholic Church as Pope Fights ‘Complex’ Infection

Pope Francis remains hospitalized in Rome as doctors treat a worsening respiratory infection that the Vatican has described as a “complex clinical picture.” The 88-year-old pontiff was admitted to Gemelli Hospital on Friday following a weeklong struggle with bronchitis that required additional medical intervention.

Vatican spokesperson Matteo Bruni confirmed on Monday that Francis is suffering from a “polymicrobial respiratory tract infection” requiring adjustments in his drug therapy. Bruni said the complexity of his symptoms “will require an appropriate hospital stay,” adding that the pope remains in “stable” condition.

Is Pope Francis Sick?

The pope is battling a serious respiratory infection that has required hospitalization. Doctors at Rome’s Gemelli Hospital are overseeing his treatment, and his treatment plan has been adjusted to address the complications. The pope has faced multiple health concerns in the past, including chronic knee pain, sciatica and past surgeries.

How Old Is Pope Francis?

Pope Francis, born on December 17, 1936, is 88 years old. He is the oldest sitting pope in recent history, and his age has been a factor in his ongoing health struggles. Despite his advanced years, Pope Francis has remained active in his papal duties until recent health setbacks.

Pope Leo XIII holds the record as the oldest sitting pope. He served as the head of the Catholic Church from February 1878 until his death at the age of 93 in July 1903.

The Context

Concerns over Pope Francis’ health have been mounting in recent years, with the pontiff facing multiple hospitalizations and surgeries. In addition to his respiratory issues, he has a history of lung complications, having had part of one lung removed in his youth. His continued hospitalization has already led to the cancellation of several Vatican events, including scheduled Holy Year celebrations.

The pope’s condition and his ability to continue fulfilling his duties are of particular importance to the global Catholic Church, given his influence on religious and political matters worldwide.

What To Know

Pope Francis, born Jorge Mario Bergoglio, has served as the leader of the Catholic Church since 2013. He is the first pope from South America.

Throughout his tenure, he has faced health challenges, including a 2021 surgery to remove part of his colon and a subsequent 2023 procedure to repair an abdominal hernia. He also frequently uses a wheelchair or cane due to chronic knee pain and sciatica.

This latest hospitalization follows a previous scare in 2023 when the pope was admitted for pneumonia. At that time, he was discharged after three days, with reports later indicating that his condition had been serious. His current illness has already kept him in the hospital for a longer period, raising further concerns about his long-term well-being.

When Did Pope Francis Become Pope?

Pope Francis was elected as the leader of the Catholic Church on March 13, 2013, following the resignation of Pope Benedict XVI. His papacy has been marked by efforts to modernize the church, address social justice issues, and promote interfaith dialogue.

Who Will Be The Next Pope?

If Pope Francis is unable to continue his leadership due to health issues, the selection of a new pope would follow the traditional conclave process. Cardinals from around the world would gather in Vatican City to cast their votes in the Sistine Chapel, a procedure last seen in 2013 when Pope Benedict XVI stepped down.

While no clear successor has been named, several prominent cardinals have been speculated as potential candidates, including Cardinal Pietro Parolin, Cardinal Luis Antonio Tagle and Cardinal Robert Sarah. The decision will ultimately be made by the College of Cardinals.

What People Are Saying

Pope Francis’ official X (formerly Twitter) account posted on February 16: “Thank you for the affection, prayer and closeness with which you are accompanying me in these days.”

Eric Sammons, editor-in-chief of Crisis Magazine, on X: “If you are not praying for Pope Francis right now, I question your Catholicism.”

What Happens Next

The Vatican has yet to provide a timeline for Pope Francis’ release from the hospital. His next scheduled public appearance is a weekly general audience on Wednesday, but his participation remains uncertain.

As speculation grows about the future of the papacy, discussions about potential successors have resurfaced. Should Pope Francis step down due to health concerns, a papal conclave would be convened to elect a new pope.

For now, Vatican officials and the global Catholic community await further updates on the pope’s condition, with prayers continuing for his recovery.