On the afternoon of March 29, Pope Francis was taken to Gemelli Hospital in Rome. Reports followed that Pope Francis has a respiratory infection and will remain in the hospital for several days.
Bishop David M. O’Connell, C.M., of the Trenton Diocese, shared the following message early the next morning: “Reports from the Vatican indicated that the Holy Father rested comfortably during the night. He woke this morning, had breakfast, read newspapers and even visited the hospital chapel for prayer. He remains at the Gemelli Hospital where the medical staff continue to monitor his progress dealing with an infection in his lung. There has been no Vatican announcement regarding Pope Francis’ participation in public ceremonies for Holy Week.”
The Bishop continued, “I ask that the clergy, religious and faithful of the Diocese remain close to the Holy Father in loving prayer for his speedy and complete return to good health, especially as the Church celebrates the coming holy days.”
Archbishop Timothy P. Broglio of the Archdiocese for the Military Services, USA, and president of the U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops issued a statement regarding the Holy Father: “As Pope Francis recovers in the hospital from a respiratory infection, we pray intensely for our Holy Father. On behalf of my brother bishops, I invite all the faithful to pause, if possible before the Blessed Sacrament, and pray for his speedy recovery. May our dear shepherd and all those in need of healing experience the comfort of Christ.”