Pope's health continues to gradually improve

Pope appeared briefly after the Jubilee of the Sick Mass on Sunday. Image: Vatican Media

Source: Vatican Media

In a briefing on Tuesday morning the Holy See Press Office told journalists that Pope Francis' condition remains stable and his breathing, mobility, and voice are all gradually improving.

The Holy Father has been continuing to receive treatment and mobility and respiratory-related physiotherapy; he also requires less supplemental oxygen.

During the day, the Pope continues with an ordinary administration of oxygen, while, at night, he uses high-flow oxygenation with nasal cannulas as needed.

Pope Francis is in good spirits and continues his work activities, said the Press Office, noting he receives various documents from Dicasteries, and speaks by phone as necessary.

On Monday, the Pope received the Vatican Secretary of State, Cardinal Pietro Parolin, at Casa Santa Marta.

The Press Office said the Pope concelebrates Mass each day in the small chapel on the second floor of his residence. They said his calls to the Holy Family parish in Gaza are also continuing.

The General Audience originally planned for 9 April will not take place, but the text the Pope has prepared for the occasion is expected to be released to journalists as it has been in prior weeks.

The Press Office noted it is still too early to discuss the Pope's participation in Holy Week liturgies.