Pope Francis, the leader of the Roman Catholic Church, has been hospitalized due to a bronchitis diagnosis.
Pope Francis is receiving treatment at Agostino Gemelli Polyclinic Hospital in Rome, resulting in the cancellation or adjustment of events related to the Jubilee of Artists.
The Daily Caller reported that on Friday, the Holy See Press Office confirmed the pope's hospitalization. He has been battling bronchitis and requires medical attention. T
While specific details about his condition are limited, the press office has disclosed that several diagnostic tests are scheduled for the pontiff.
Pope Francis, who has openly discussed his health struggles during recent events, had his remarks read by collaborators at the last two Wednesday General Audiences. Over the past few days, his ability to actively participate in events has been affected due to his illness.
Consequently, the pope's health situation has disrupted plans for the Jubilee of Artists, a series of events intended to engage artists worldwide.
The Holy See Press Office announced a significant change: the Jubilee Audience originally planned for February 15 has been canceled. This audience was one of the highlights of the celebration, prompting a reshuffle in the event calendar.
In addition to the audience's cancellation, the Holy Mass for the Jubilee of Artists and the World of Culture, scheduled for February 16, will be led by Cardinal José Tolentino de Mendonça. Cardinal de Mendonça, Prefect of the Dicastery for Culture and Education, will assume these duties in place of Pope Francis.
"The Holy Mass for the Jubilee of Artists and the World of Culture, set to take place on Sunday, February 16, will be presided over by His Eminence Cardinal José Tolentino de Mendonça," stated the official announcement. The Holy See has placed great importance on the continuation of events where possible, even in the absence of the pope.
In another change, a meeting with artists that had been slated for Monday at Cinecittà, the famous film studio complex in Rome, will not be happening.
This event was anticipated to draw substantial interest, given its ties with the artistic community. The Holy See has indicated that the meeting's cancellation is due to the inability of Pope Francis to attend.
The statement from the Holy See emphasized the impact of the Pope's unexpected health issues. "The meeting with artists, originally planned for Monday at Cinecittà, will not take place due to the Pope’s inability to attend," the statement continued.
As of now, there is no clear indication of how long Pope Francis will remain in the hospital. While there is hope for a swift recovery, his stay's duration depends upon the outcome of the diagnostic tests and the treatment plan outlined by his medical team.
It is important to note that Pope Francis has been transparent about his bronchitis condition, ensuring that he continues to communicate with the faithful and the world, even from his hospital bed.
During his hospitalization, staff and collaborators have taken on increased roles, allowing the pope to focus on his recovery while maintaining a connection with the global Catholic community.
In the days ahead, the Vatican will likely provide updates on the pope's health and any further adjustments to his schedule. Those events and meet-ups not requiring his presence will continue as planned, with delegates assuming necessary roles.
