Pope Francis ‘rested well overnight’ with a ventilation mask as he battles pneumonia

Pope Francis rests during Lent, using a ventilation mask for double pneumonia treatment, with a guarded prognosis.

Pope Francis was resting Wednesday (March 5, 2025), the start of the solemn Lenten period leading up to Holy Week observances, after sleeping through the night with a ventilation mask as he undergoes hospital treatment for double pneumonia.

In its latest update, the Vatican said that the Pope rested well overnight, waking up shortly after 8 a.m. Pope Francis remained in stable condition, with a guarded prognosis, meaning he was not out of danger.

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The 88-year-old Pope, who has chronic lung disease and had part of one lung removed as a young man, had two respiratory crises on Monday in a setback to his recovery.

On Tuesday, he was breathing with just the help of supplemental oxygen after respiratory crises a day earlier, but resumed using a ventilation mask at night, the Vatican said.

Pope Francis' hospitalization began on Feb. 14 and is the longest of his 12-year papacy.

Pope Francis’ treatment continues as the Vatican prepares for Lent, the solemn period beginning with Ash Wednesday and leading up to Easter on April 20. A cardinal has been designated to take Pope Francis’ place at Vatican celebrations, with a traditional service and procession in Rome