The Vatican is reportedly making preparations for Pope Francis' funeral as concerns grow over his health following a recent pneumonia diagnosis, with the Pope telling his aides that he "may not survive."
According to Swiss newspaper Blick, the Swiss Guard has been placed under curfew while rehearsing funeral proceedings in anticipation of the 88-year-old pontiff’s passing. The Pope had previously stated that he had "already prepared" his tomb, though reports suggest the location and design of his burial site may break from tradition.
Pope Francis was hospitalized at Rome’s Gemelli Hospital on Friday after experiencing severe chest pain, having initially resisted medical attention. Doctors later diagnosed him with a "complex" respiratory infection, which the Vatican confirmed involves asthmatic bronchitis and pneumonia. He is currently receiving cortisone antibiotic treatment.
“Laboratory tests, chest X-ray, and the Holy Father’s clinical condition continue to present a complex picture,” the Vatican stated, noting that the Pope's condition is particularly concerning due to his history of lung complications.
Italian Cardinal Angelo Comastri, 81, told broadcaster Rai that Pope Francis remains "very calm" and that "his helm is in the hands of the Lord." Meanwhile, Politico reported that two individuals close to the Pope said he told them he “might not make it this time.”
The Pope has reportedly been working to solidify his legacy in recent weeks, taking steps to ensure continuity within the Church during a politically sensitive time.
Supporters have gathered outside the hospital in Rome to pray for his recovery. Medical experts have identified his condition as a polymicrobial respiratory tract infection, which involves multiple pathogens and has resulted in double pneumonia.
Despite illness, the Vatican reports that Francis has continued eating breakfast, reading newspapers, and working from his hospital room. Tere has been no update on how he is responding to treatment beyond confirmation that he is not running a fever, which is not a positive sign as fevers indicate that the immune system is working normally.
