The latest update on Pope Francis’ health shows positive signs in his recovery process at Casa Santa Marta, as announced by the Holy See Press Office on Holy Tuesday, April 15, 2025. The Holy Father is making progress in his respiratory capacity, mobility, and voice recovery.
While still receiving high-flow oxygen, the Pope now only requires occasional doses for therapeutic reasons. His need for respiratory support has significantly decreased, with longer periods of independence from nasal cannulas being observed.
Despite his physical limitations, Pope Francis is actively participating in physical therapy sessions, including motor and respiratory exercises, as well as specific vocal exercises. He continues to hold brief meetings with Curia collaborators, showcasing his dedication to pastoral and governance duties even during his recovery.
Holy Week in Rome: Delegated Celebrations
Due to his health condition, Pope Francis has decided not to preside over the main liturgical events of the Easter Triduum, delegating this responsibility to several cardinals. The Chrism Mass on Holy Thursday will be led by Cardinal Domenico Calcagno, while the Mass of the Lord’s Supper and the celebration of the Lord’s Passion on Good Friday will be presided over by Cardinal Claudio Gugerotti and Cardinal Baldassare Reina respectively.
The Pope’s Spiritual Presence
Despite his absence from the physical celebrations, Pope Francis has prepared the meditations for the Way of the Cross at the Colosseum. The meditations, authored by the Pope himself, will be officially released on Good Friday.
While the Pope is expected to closely follow the Triduum events, his participation in any of the celebrations is yet to be confirmed. The final schedule of services at St. Peter’s Basilica will be announced in due course.
