While St. Peter’s Square remains filled with tourists and pilgrims marking the Catholic Holy Year, activity within the Vatican’s inner chambers has come to a near standstill as Pope Francis remains hospitalized. The 88-year-old pontiff, admitted to Rome’s Gemelli Hospital on February 14, 2025, continues to battle double pneumonia, leaving the Church in a state of uncertainty.
As journalists from around the world report on the Pope’s condition, inside the Vatican, day-to-day operations have drastically slowed. The Swiss Guard, responsible for the Pope’s security, has described the Vatican as operating at "minimum service."
Masses, Audiences, and Official Events Cancelled
The Vatican’s typically packed schedule has emptied in the Pope’s absence.
- Masses, state receptions, and key religious ceremonies have been either canceled or led by high-ranking cardinals.
- Major audiences and ambassador receptions have been put on hold.
- Vatican departments have entered what some describe as a period of dormancy, reminiscent of the COVID-19 lockdown.
Corporal Eliah Cinotti, spokesperson for the Swiss Guard, confirmed:
"Extraordinary services—masses, audiences, receptions of ambassadors and heads of state—are in free fall."
Inside the Vatican: Uncertainty Looms
While the Roman Curia, which governs the Church’s global operations, continues to function, uncertainty over the Pope’s health has hindered long-term planning. With no official medical prognosis from his doctors, Vatican officials find it difficult to organize future events.
Pope Francis has not made a public appearance since February 14. His absence is most noticeable at the Apostolic Palace, where he usually leads the weekly Angelus prayer. For three consecutive Sundays, his window has remained closed, marking a first in his 12-year papacy.
Vatican’s Daily Routine: A Waiting Game
Every day, the Vatican releases two health bulletins:
- A morning report detailing how the Pope’s night went.
- An evening update with a more in-depth health assessment.
Meanwhile, Vatican insiders describe a growing sense of anxiety. A Vatican official, speaking anonymously, shared:
"We are living day by day. There are moments of fear, and others where we feel hopeful. It’s a rollercoaster and very stressful."
Speculation Over Resignation and Papal Transition
The Pope’s hospitalization—the longest of his papacy—has reignited rumors of a possible resignation. While discussions of a future conclave (the secret gathering of cardinals to elect a new pope) remain unofficial, diplomatic sources confirm that some preparations are quietly underway.
A European diplomat to the Holy See admitted:
"We are in crisis mode. Files for the conclave have been updated."
However, discussing papal succession while the Pope is still alive remains taboo. A Vatican Secretariat of State official stated:
"It would be inappropriate. The truth is, no one knows what will happen."
Will Pope Francis Return for Easter?
Despite his critical condition, Pope Francis has signaled that he is still in charge, continuing to work from his hospital suite on days when his health allows. However, he has already missed the Ash Wednesday celebrations, marking the start of Lent.
With Easter just 40 days away, Vatican officials remain uncertain if the leader of 1.4 billion Catholics will be able to preside over the most significant event in the Christian calendar.