Jakarta, Indonesia Sentinel — Pope Francis health has taken a critical turn after 10 days of hospitalization, with the Vatican confirming on Sunday (February 23) that he has developed early-stage kidney failure. Despite his condition, the pontiff remains alert, responsive, and participated in Mass.
According to the Holy See Press Office, while Pope Francis no longer experiences respiratory crises, he continues to receive high-flow oxygen therapy.
“The Holy Father’s condition remains critical; however, since last night, he has not experienced any further respiratory crises,” the Vatican stated, as reported by CNN Indonesia.
The Vatican also disclosed that Pope Francis underwent a blood transfusion to address thrombocytopenia, a condition characterized by a low platelet count that can impair blood clotting. The doctor
However, further tests revealed the onset of mild kidney failure. Despite this, doctors assured that his condition remains under control.
Due to the complexity of his medical condition, the Vatican said it is too early to determine his long-term prognosis, as doctors continue to monitor his response to treatment.
“The complexity of the clinical picture and the necessary waiting period to assess the effects of the medication mean that his prognosis remains uncertain,” his medical team stated.
Hospitalization and Health Challenges
Pope Francis, who has led the Catholic Church since 2013, was admitted to Gemelli Hospital on Feb. 14 with an initial diagnosis of bronchitis. His condition later developed into double pneumonia, and on Saturday, he suffered a prolonged respiratory crisis.
Pope Francis has a history of respiratory illness, making him vulnerable to lung disease. Doctors have expressed serious concern about his health, citing his age, frailty, and pre-existing lung conditions.
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Latest update from the Vatican describe the pope was worsen and in critical conditions. Despite his condition, Pope Francis followed Sunday morning Mass on February 23 from his papal apartment on the 10th floor of Rome’s Gemelli Hospital, accompanied by the medical staff treating him.
Global Prayers for the Pope
Pope Francis had been scheduled to celebrate Sunday Mass at St. Peter’s Basilica and ordain deacons as part of the Vatican’s Holy Year observance. In his absence, Archbishop Rino Fisichella led the service, offering a special prayer for the pontiff before delivering the homily prepared by Francis.
“Even though he is in a hospital bed, we feel Pope Francis is close to us. We feel his presence among us,” Fisichella said, as reported by Kumparan.
Catholics around the world have continued to pray for the pope’s recovery. In his native Argentina, believers gathered in Buenos Aires Cathedral to offer prayers.
In New York, Cardinal Timothy Dolan said the Catholic community stands united in prayer for the pontiff. Across Italy, bishops led special Masses and recited the rosary for his healing.
Expressions of support have also come from other religious leaders. In Cairo, Egypt, Grand Imam of Al-Azhar Sheikh Ahmed al-Tayeb extended his prayers for Pope Francis’ health.
“I pray to Almighty God for the swift recovery of my dear brother, Pope Francis, and for his continued health and well-being in his service to humanity,” he wrote.
As prayers continue to pour in from around the world, hope remains for Pope Francis’ recovery.
(Raidi/Agung)
