“Today’s hematochemical and hemacrocytometric examinations confirmed yesterday’s improvement,” the Vatican’s evening statement said.
The pope did not experience an “asthmatic respiratory crisis” on his 12th day of treatment in Gemelli Hospital but continues to undergo “high-flow oxygen therapy” and respiratory physiotherapy to treat his pneumonia.
“During the morning, the Holy Father received the Eucharist. The afternoon was devoted to work activities,” the Vatican report concluded.
Though the Holy Father met with Vatican officials at Gemelli Hospital earlier this week — including Secretary of State Cardinal Pietro Parolin and Archbishop Edgar Peña Parra, substitute for general affairs of the Secretariat of State — the pontiff has not received any visitors today, the Vatican said.
In Rome, parishes and religious communities continue to offer Masses and prayers for Pope Francis, his health, and the leadership of the Church while the pontiff remains in the hospital for ongoing medical treatment.
Since Monday, the Diocese of Rome and the Roman Curia have collaborated to organize nightly prayer events open to the public in St. Peter’s Square to pray for the pope’s recovery.
Italian Cardinal Giovanni Battista Re, dean of the College of Cardinals, will lead Wednesday evening’s rosary.
Kristina Millare is a freelance journalist with a professional communications background in the humanitarian aid and development sector, news journalism, entertainment marketing, politics and government, business and entrepreneurship.
