A moment of uncertainty has been alleviated by faith: Pope Francis, once feared to be in critical condition, is now on the road to recovery, proving that hope and faith prevail even in the darkest times. The 88-year-old leader of the Catholic Church has been undergoing treatment for double pneumonia at Rome’s Gemelli Hospital since mid-February of 2025. His condition has luckily shown signs of improvement, offering hope and relief to Catholics worldwide—including those at Catholic schools like Loyola.

Pope Francis had already faced severe respiratory difficulties that significantly limited his oxygen levels before his hospitalization on Feb. 14, 2025 when he was diagnosed with bilateral pneumonia. These and other pre-existing health conditions, such as a partial lung removal in his youth, have all added to the concerns of Pope Francis’ journey to recovery.

For many people, the Pope’s recent health struggles raised fears about his ability to continue leading the Church.

Hale Blankenship ‘27 expressed his apprehension, saying, “When I first heard about Pope Francis’s health issues, my heart immediately dropped. I couldn’t stop thinking about how his loss could impact Loyola and the worldwide Catholic communities.”

At Loyola, Pope Francis’ leadership remains a guiding force. His advocacy for social justice, care for the marginalized, and emphasis on faith in action align closely with Jesuit values. His words continue to challenge students to serve others and reflect on their own faith journeys.

His health scare also serves as a reminder of the humanity of world leaders. While he is a spiritual figure, he is not immune to the sufferings of the mortal world, which only makes his perseverance more meaningful. His ability to recover and continue leading the Church is a testament to faith and strength, resonating with many in our community. Luke Munoz ’27 said, “Pope Francis’ condition and rapid change caused many, including me, much fear, but I know that with Pope Francis’ compassion, love, and the community he is surrounded with, he will be okay.”

As Pope Francis moves forward, his leadership will undoubtedly shape the future of the Church. Whether through his continued reforms or his unwavering commitment to global issues, his influence will be felt for years to come, including here at Loyola. Please join The Loyalist Staff in wishing him a speedy recovery!