Pope Francis Faces Health Crisis, Celebrates Mass in Hospital

Pope Francis was seen for the first time since his hospitalization for double pneumonia on February 14, with the Vatican releasing a photo of him celebrating Mass at Rome's Gemelli Hospital. His health has improved, with the Vatican stating he is 'out of danger from death' and his condition remains stable. Although he required oxygen assistance during his treatment, he is now breathing independently, which offers hope for his recovery. The Vatican has indicated that medical updates will be provided less frequently as his condition stabilizes, suggesting a slow but positive recovery process. The pope celebrated his twelfth anniversary in the papacy while in the hospital, engaging with the Roman Curia via video during their Lenten retreat. This ongoing hospitalization follows a series of serious respiratory issues that have complicated his recovery, but recent reports indicate encouraging signs of improvement.