According to a new diagnosis, Pope Francis is suffering from a "polymicrobial infection of the respiratory tract." Therefore, the treatment of the 88-year-old will be adjusted, the Vatican stated on Monday. "All examinations conducted so far indicate a complex medical condition that requires a corresponding hospital stay," said a Vatican statement.

Pope Francis Must Forego General Audience and Meeting with Deacons

The Pope had "a quiet night" in the hospital, his spokesman Matteo Bruni previously announced. Francis "rested well, had a quiet night, had breakfast, and dedicated himself to reading the newspapers. He is in good spirits. Due to the Pope's health issues, the general audience, which usually takes place weekly on Wednesday, has been canceled. The head of the church will also not participate as planned in the events for the Jubilee Year of the Deacons next Sunday. All events of the Holy Year will continue as planned, the Vatican announced.

Phone Call from Pope Francis with Parish of the Holy Family

The Pontiff had a phone conversation with the Parish of the Holy Family in Gaza. "The Pope called us from the hospital. His voice sounded tired, but he was in good spirits. He wanted to know how we are doing," reported a parish staff member according to media reports. In recent months, the Pope has very often called the pastor of Gaza, Father Gabriel Romanelli, to express his closeness to the people in Gaza.

Angelus Prayer on Sunday Without Pope Francis

Francis refrained from the traditional Angelus prayer at noon on Sunday. The attending doctors have prescribed "absolute rest" for the 88-year-old head of the Catholic Church. The Pope was supposed to visit the Roman film studios Cinecittà on Monday and celebrate a mass with the artists there. Due to his hospital stay, he had to cancel the appointment.

(APA/Red)

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