Pope's health updates

Statue of St Pope John Paul at Gemelli Hospital

Source: Vatican Media

Pope Francis, who has been receiving treatment at the Gemelli Hospital in Rome for bronchitis, since Friday 14 February, had a "calm and restful" night, the Vatican has reported. The Pope's General Audience, this week, has been cancelled, in order to give him more time to rest.

The Director of the Holy See Press Office, Matteo Bruni, told journalists today that the Pope is in good spirits.

In spite of his illness the Holy Father made his regular call parishioners of the Holy Family Parish in Gaza on Friday and Saturday.

Parish priest, Argentine-born Father Gabriel Romanelli said: "The Holy Father called us the first two days of hospitalization, people were waiting at 8pm Gaza time as always."

"Although we had a blackout in the whole area of Gaza City, he insisted and managed to contact us with a video-call."

As the Pope checked in on the parishioners and gave them his blessing, the people expressed their closeness to him.

"We heard his voice. It is true, he is more tired. He himself said, 'I have to take care of myself.' But you could hear the clear voice, he listened to us well."

On Sunday, Pope Francis sent a text message to Fr Gabriel instead of speaking. He thanked everyone for their prayers and gave them his blessing.

Fr Gabriel said: "We hope that the recovery will happen soon, and that he can return to St Peter's to continue his mission and work."

In a message to journalists on Monday evening, the Holy See Press Office gave the latest update on the Pope's health since he was hospitalized on Friday to receive treatment for bronchitis.

"His condition is stable. This morning, he received the Eucharist and then undertook some work and some reading."

The statement added that "Pope Francis is touched by the numerous messages of affection and closeness that he has been receiving in recent hours; he especially wants to extend his thanks to those who are hospitalized at this time, for the affection and love they have expressed through drawings and messages of good wishes; he prays for them and asks that they pray for him."