Reports from the Swiss newspaper Blick have brought into focus growing concerns about the health of Pope Francis. According to the reports, preparations are being made for the possibility of the Pope’s death, with funeral ceremonies already underway. Meanwhile, the medical team treating the 88-year-old Pope is fully aware of the severity of his condition.

“He is not even allowed to take air,

—据意大利安莎通讯社报道

These words highlight the critical nature of Pope Francis’ health. In addition to his inability to appear on the balcony to deliver the Angelus prayer, which is a pivotal moment in Catholic tradition, he is also reportedly unable to look out of windows due to the severity of his illness, now diagnosed as bilateral pneumonia.

Swiss Guard Comments on Preparations

In response to the reports, the Swiss Guard has commented on the Blick article. Captain Christian Kühne of the Swiss Guard clarified that there are no police hours or funeral rehearsals for the Pope in place. He emphasized that normal protocols are being maintained. This denial comes amid speculation about the Vatican’s preparedness for a potential succession.

Public Reaction and Prayer

Meanwhile, people have been gathering outside the Gemelli Hospital in Rome, where Pope Francis is being treated. They are praying for his recovery and recalling prayers with heartfelt words, such as the Pope is lying there up there, reflecting the deep emotional connection many feel to the Pontiff.

Medical Details and Background

Pope Francis was admitted to the hospital on Friday. Over the past several weeks, he has been battling recurring respiratory infections, particularly severe during the winter months. His medical history, including the removal of his right lung during his youth in Argentina, has likely contributed to the severity of his current condition.

Initially diagnosed with bronchitis, his condition worsened to a “polybacterial infection,” involving multiple pathogens. Recent tests have revealed bilateral pneumonia, a serious condition that is being closely monitored by Vatican officials and medical staff.

Pope’s Cousin Speaks Out

“I hope that they will keep him there for as long as necessary until he fully recovers,

—Carla Rabzzana, Pope Francis’ 93-year-old Italian cousin from Piedmont

Carla Rabzzana, a cousin of Pope Francis, has expressed her hope for a prolonged hospital stay to ensure full recovery. She described her cousin as a man of fortitude, someone who does not easily give up, even in the face of illness.

Rabzzana shared a conversation with the Pope shortly before his hospitalization. Despite sounding hoarse and sneezing, Pope Francis dismissed her concerns, attributing his symptoms to a simple cold. “He told me not to worry, because in his opinion it was only a cold and nothing more,” Rabzzana recalled. Her words underscore the Pope’s resilience, even as his health deteriorates.

Global Prayer and Devotion

The Italian Episcopal Conference has called on believers worldwide to pray for Pope Francis during this time of suffering. Across Italy and in his native Argentina, masses and services are taking place on his behalf. Despite the Pope’s absence from public appearances since his hospitalization, his presence in the hearts of his followers remains unwavering.