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The Vatican stated on Wednesday that Pope Francis, who is in the hospital with pneumonia, “rested well” overnight while wearing an oxygen mask.
However, his absence at the beginning of the Lent religious season raised concerns about the 88-year-old’s health.
Since being admitted to the Gemelli hospital in Rome on February 14 due to breathing issues, Francis has experienced concerning respiratory bouts.
The Vatican issued a morning medical statement stating that the pope “rested well overnight.”
On Tuesday, the Roman Catholic headquarters said that Francis had survived a peaceful day free from attack. According to the Vatican’s evening medical bulletin, he was “alert,” had no fever, and cooperated with his treatment.
However, the Argentine’s prognosis “remains reserved” after wearing an oxygen mask overnight.
Ash Wednesday, which marks the beginning of Lent—the 40 days leading up to Easter during which Christ fasted in the desert—will not be presided over by the head of the Catholic Church.
The main liturgy, which will begin at 1600 GMT, is often led by the pope. In his place, Italian Cardinal Angelo de Donatis will preside over the mass, which will be followed by a procession on the Aventine Hill in Rome.
Francis has suffered from several health issues since his election in 2013, including severe knee discomfort, which caused him to skip Ash Wednesday festivities in 2022.
His health has frequently raised questions about whether he could step down, especially among his critics.
The last pictures of Francis were taken at private events only hours before he was admitted to the hospital, and he hasn’t been spotted in public for about three weeks.
