ROME (AP) — Pope Francis is currently recovering from double pneumonia after spending over three weeks in the hospital. According to medical professionals overseeing his care, the 88-year-old pontiff has been responding well to treatment, showing a “gradual, slight improvement” in recent days. On Sunday, the Vatican provided an update stating that Francis is resting after a peaceful night, though he will again miss his weekly noon blessing for the fourth consecutive week. The Vatican plans to share the message he would have delivered had he been in good health.

The pope, who has a history of chronic lung illness and underwent partial lung removal during his youth, remains stable with no fever and good oxygen levels for several days, as reported by doctors in a statement from the Vatican. They noted that this stability suggests a positive response to the therapies he has been undergoing since being admitted on February 14. At that time, he was diagnosed with only bronchitis, but his condition later evolved into a complex respiratory infection and double pneumonia, which has kept him hospitalized for the longest duration of his twelve-year papacy, calling into question his future health.

While he has shown signs of recovery, doctors maintain a “guarded” prognosis, indicating he is not entirely out of danger. In the pope's absence, the daily operations at the Vatican continue, as do the celebrations associated with the Holy Year — a Jubilee that draws millions of pilgrims to Rome. Cardinal Michael Czerny, a close associate of Pope Francis, officiated the Holy Year Mass intended for volunteers in Francis's stead.

Pope Francis has been using high-flow supplemental oxygen during the day and a noninvasive mechanical ventilation mask at night to assist with his breathing. His hospitalization started after what was initially reported as a severe case of bronchitis, which quickly advanced into a serious respiratory illness, marking a significant health crisis for the pontiff.

The events surrounding the pope's illness have elicited prayers and support from around the globe, with many Catholics gathering in St. Peter's Square to pray the Rosary for his recovery. As the situation unfolds, the Vatican remains focused on both the health of the pope and the ongoing religious observances, highlighting the resilience of its community during this challenging time.