Pope Francis, 88, is showing positive signs in his battle against pneumonia, according to the Vatican. Admitted to Rome's Gemelli hospital on February 14 with what was initially diagnosed as bronchitis, his condition evolved into a more complex respiratory tract infection and double pneumonia. The Vatican stated on Saturday that the Pope's condition has remained stable in recent days, indicating a good response to treatment and a gradual, slight improvement.

Despite the encouraging signs, doctors are maintaining a guarded prognosis, suggesting that the Pope is not yet out of danger. Throughout Saturday, Francis has been resting and working, according to the Vatican. The Pope's medical history includes chronic lung disease and the removal of part of one lung when he was younger. Currently, he is receiving high flows of supplemental oxygen during the day and uses a noninvasive mechanical ventilation mask at night.

In Pope Francis' absence, Cardinal Pietro Parolin has taken on some of his responsibilities, including celebrating Mass for a pro-life group in St. Peter's Basilica. Cardinal Parolin conveyed a message from the Pope, dated March 5, emphasizing the need to protect life from birth to natural death, encouraging pro-life activities for the unborn, the elderly, those no longer independent, and the incurably ill.

On Friday, Pope Francis spent 20 minutes in the Gemelli hospital chapel, engaged in prayer and work, interspersed with periods of rest and respiratory and physical therapy, as reported by the Vatican. This illness marks the longest period Pope Francis has been sidelined during his 12-year papacy, prompting questions and concerns about the future.

Dr. Jeffrey Millstein, a clinical assistant professor of internal medicine at the University of Pennsylvania, has characterized the Pope's condition as precarious, noting that while recovery is possible, it will likely be a lengthy process.