Pope Francis suffered a major health scare while being treated for double pneumonia at Gemelli Hospital in Rome, causing serious concern about his condition.

On February 14, 2025, he experienced a severe setback requiring ventilator support after inhaling vomit, the New York Post reported.

The incident, described by Vatican officials, represented a worrying development during what had been an optimistic recovery period.

Pope Francis has been hospitalized since mid-February 2025. Initially, his stay in the hospital was marked by a routine treatment routine, including high flows of supplemental oxygen. He engaged in his usual activities such as prayer, reading newspapers, and receiving respiratory physiotherapy.

Supporters Gather as Pope Faces Health Challenges

The situation took a turn for the worse in the afternoon of February 14 when he suffered a bronchial spasm. Despite this, he remained alert and conscious through it all, managing stable oxygen levels. The spasm was labeled as a "sudden worsening of the respiratory picture" by the Vatican.

This development was particularly alarming as it followed a period where the Pope appeared to be making progress in his recovery. Before the incident, Vatican officials and global supporters were hopeful of his quick return to full health. Instead, they faced an uncertain prognosis from doctors, unsure of the likely outcome.

Religious and Lay Communities Rally in Prayer

As news of the Pope's condition spread, support poured in from around the world. Faithful followers gathered to pray for his recovery in venues ranging from St. Peter's Square to remote churches in Mexico City. “He is like part of the family,” said Araceli Gutiérrez, reflecting a sentiment echoed by many across the globe.

María Teresa Sánchez offered words of support from Mexico City, noting, “That’s like having a relative within the higher-ups, with God. He has done so much for religion; he’s such a humble person.” This global outpouring of prayers highlighted the Pope's significant impact on people worldwide.

Long Recovery Expected as Vatican Adjusts Plans

In light of the Pope's condition, the Vatican had to make considerable adjustments to its liturgical and administrative calendar. Cardinal Angelo De Donatis was appointed to preside over the Ash Wednesday ceremony. This event, a significant element of the Christian liturgical year, was to be held on March 5, 2025, without Pope Francis.

Furthermore, a major Holy Year event scheduled for the Saturday after the Pope’s hospitalization had to be canceled, signifying the serious nature of his health plight. These changes underscore the challenges the Vatican faces as it navigates this uncertain period.

Resilient Hope Amidst Health Fears

Despite the severity of his health issues, medical experts did not classify Pope Francis’s condition as "critical". This provided a glimmer of hope that, with proper care and a bit of divine intervention, he might pull through this difficult episode.

Looking ahead, the Vatican calendar remains ambitious, including the canonization of Carlo Acutis on April 27 and the 1700th anniversary of the Council of Nicea on May 24. These upcoming events serve as a reminder of the Vatican's ongoing commitments and the hope for Pope Francis's participation should his health improve.

In conclusion, as the world watches and prays, the road to recovery for Pope Francis is fraught with complications but also marked by an overwhelming wave of global support and prayer. The coming weeks will be critical in determining the trajectory of his recovery and his ability to return to the heart of the Vatican’s religious and administrative life.