“When I heard that Pope Francis was hospitalized, I was really shocked since at least for me it was unexpected. I got the notification from the news and I felt really shocked and since he has been in my prayers,” shared sophomore Maria Nordholz.

On February 14th, Pope Francis was admitted into the hospital due to a worsening lung infection. He was diagnosed with double pneumonia and some kidney issues were noted. A CT scan conducted on Tuesday showed that the infection under treatment has shown signs of improvement.

Furthermore, a mild kidney insufficiency that had been detected this week has receded, offering an optimistic change in his condition. Despite his condition, Pope Francis has continued to show great strength. After receiving the Eucharist in the morning on Wednesday, he resumed his work in the afternoon. The Pope has been working hard and approving important decisions that are needed to be made.

“As I’ve been receiving all the updates on his condition through the news, I’ve been hoping to see a notification saying he is well and back from the hospital. I hope that he has a fast recovery,” said sophomore Camila Echeverri.

Since Saturday, the Pope has thankfully not had any further respiratory crises. The medical team at Rome’s Gemelli hospital has been working hard to help him recover. Pope Francis has been hard at work from his hospital room. On Wednesday he approved four new bishops and approved the creation of a new fundraising initiative. Citizens of Rome gathered at St. Peter’s square for the nightly Rosary prayer led by Cardinal Luis Antonio Tagle.

“It’s good to see that he is still getting important decisions done while in his condition. Seeing that essential work is getting done gives me a positive outlook that he is doing better and will recover,” shared sophomore Sophie Yetming.