Pope Francis was admitted this Friday to the Agostino Gemelli Polyclinic to undergo medical examinations and continue his treatment for bronchitis. According to information from the Vatican, the 88-year-old Supreme Pontiff showed respiratory difficulties in recent days, which led him to ask his assistants to read parts of his speeches during his morning audiences.
An official statement mentioned that Francis would continue his treatment in a hospital setting after being hospitalized upon completing his commitments for the day. Despite his health condition, the Pope briefly resumed speaking during one of his audiences to address the present pilgrims and call for prayer for world peace.
During the general audience last Wednesday, the Pope asked a priest to continue reading his message, explaining: "Let me ask the father to continue reading because I still cannot with my bronchitis. I hope to be able to next time." Despite the discomfort caused by the respiratory condition, Francis stressed the importance of solidarity and prayer as pillars for building a more peaceful world.
