VATICAN CITY (RNS) — Pope Francis’ condition remained stable on Wednesday (March 5), according to a Vatican statement relaying his doctors’ reports. As Francis is being treated for pneumonia in both lungs at the Gemelli Hospital in Rome, the Vatican prepares to celebrate Lenten events without the pontiff.

On Ash Wednesday, observant Catholics receive a sign of the cross in ashes on their foreheads, a gesture that underscores human mortality. It is an obligatory day of fasting and abstinence for Catholics that signals the start of Christianity’s most penitent season.

The Vatican has made alternative plans for Ash Wednesday next week, making clear Pope Francis still had a long road to recovery.

battling double pneumonia Pope will not lead Ash Wednesday service next week VATICAN CITY, Feb 28 (Reuters) - Pope Francis had an "isolated breathing crisis" in hospital on Friday, the Vatican said, in a setback as the 88-year-old pontiff battles double ...

VATICAN CITY — The Catholic Church opened the solemn ... and was to read a homily prepared for the pontiff marking Ash Wednesday In its latest update on Francis, the Vatican said that the ...

The Vatican, though, made alternative plans for Ash Wednesday next week ... that he was still very much in charge. In Mexico City, a few dozen people gathered Thursday night at the cathedral ...

VATICAN CITY (AP) — Pope Francis was resting Wednesday, the start of the solemn Lenten period leading up to Holy Week observances, after sleeping through the night with a ventilation mask as he undergoes hospital treatment for double pneumonia.

Pope Francis is still in the hospital as the church he leads marks the beginning of Lent on Ash Wednesday. The Vatican says he is showing signs of improvement but still has a ways to go.

Ash Wednesday begins Lent, a 40-day period of prayer, fasting, and reflection for Christians. Observed with the application of ashes on the forehead, it signifies penance and humility. This day encourages spiritual disciplines such as prayer,

During the morning, he participated in an Ash Wednesday celebration ... Audience at the Paul VI Hall on December 13, 2023 in Vatican City, Vatican. (Credit: Vatican Media via Vatican Pool/Getty ...