Vatican Calls Off Pope’s Weekend Events

The Vatican announced on Tuesday that two of Pope Francis’ scheduled events for the weekend have been canceled as the 88-year-old pontiff continues receiving hospital treatment for bronchitis.

On Monday, the Holy See confirmed that the pope, who was admitted to Rome’s Gemelli Hospital last Friday, would remain under medical care for longer than initially expected due to a “complex” health condition.

“Due to the Holy Father’s health, the Jubilee audience scheduled for Saturday, February 22, has been canceled,” the Vatican stated. However, no mention was made of the traditional Sunday Angelus prayer, which Pope Francis missed last weekend.

Francis was hospitalized after experiencing increasing difficulty reading his public addresses. This is the latest in a series of health challenges for the Argentine-born pontiff, who has undergone hernia and colon surgeries since 2021 and relies on a wheelchair due to chronic knee pain.

On Monday, the Vatican reported that medical tests had detected a “polymicrobial infection of the respiratory tract,” prompting an adjustment in treatment. It also confirmed that his condition remained stable but required ongoing hospitalization.

Despite his health setbacks, Pope Francis has maintained an active schedule, including frequent public engagements and international trips. In September 2024, he completed his longest papal tour to date, visiting four Asia-Pacific nations.

From his hospital room, Francis followed last Sunday’s Mass on television and sent a written address for the Angelus prayer.

“I would have liked to be with you, but as you know, I am at Gemelli Hospital receiving treatment for bronchitis,” he wrote.

The pontiff has previously stated that he remains open to the idea of resigning if he becomes unable to fulfill his duties. However, in a memoir published last year, he dismissed any immediate plans to step down, emphasizing that resignation would only be considered in the case of a “serious physical impediment.”

In his autobiography released last month, Francis reflected on his health challenges but reaffirmed his commitment to his role.

“The reality is quite simple—I am old. But I carry on,” he wrote.