Pope Francis is showing improvement, the Vatican said, as the pontiff began his eighth day in hospital. Francis was admitted after struggling with breathing and is being treated for pneumonia.

Pope Francis is showing signs of improvement, remains alert, and has been doing some work, the Vatican said, as the 88-year-old pontiff marked his eighth day in the hospital battling pneumonia. He is being treated at Rome’s Gemelli Hospital after experiencing breathing difficulties for several days.

In a brief update, Vatican spokesman Matteo Bruni said the pope had slept well overnight and was able to eat breakfast. A Vatican official, speaking on condition of anonymity as they were not authorized to discuss the pope’s condition, added that Francis was breathing on his own without the assistance of any machines. The pope has also been able to move around his hospital room, take phone calls, and continue working on paperwork.

News of Francis’ improvement was met with relief from many Catholics visiting Rome. “When we heard the news, we were very happy that his health was improving,” said Salerina, a tourist from London. “But, you know, I feel ashamed because one of our purposes when we come here is to see the pope, and then we hear how, you know, he's good, but I feel sorry for him. But at the same time, I'm happy that he's improving.”

Others emphasized the importance of prayer over speculation about the pope’s future. “I think it is a time for all Catholics to pray for the pope,” said Father Giumarc, a priest from Brazil. “He’s 88, there is the frailty of age, but we must pray for him and the good of the Church. Speculation at this time is not good.”

Despite his recovery, questions about Francis’ long-term health remain. On February 20, a retired Catholic cardinal suggested that his fragile condition could prompt him to resign, following the precedent set by his predecessor, Pope Benedict XVI. However, Francis has repeatedly dismissed this possibility, calling it only a “distant hypothesis” as recently as 2024. Church law also stipulates that any papal resignation must be “freely and properly manifested,” meaning a pope’s decision to step down cannot be influenced by external pressure.

Known for maintaining a demanding schedule, sometimes holding dozens of meetings a day, Vatican officials anticipate that his latest health crisis may lead him to slow down his pace.

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