Pope Francis Hospitalized, Vatican Cancels Pontiff’s Meetings
Pope Francis will continue treatment for bronchitis in a Roman hospital, leading to changes in the program of Jubilee events for artists and cultural figures.
Photo: wikipedia, CC BY 2.0
The Vatican has made changes to the Jubilee program for artists due to Pope Francis' hospitalization as he undergoes treatment for bronchitis at the Agostino Gemelli Hospital in Rome.
The Holy See's press office announced that the Jubilee audience scheduled for February 15 has been canceled. However, the papal Mass dedicated to the Jubilee of artists and cultural representatives will still take place on February 16, presided over by Cardinal José Tolentino de Mendonça, head of the Dicastery for Culture and Education.
Additionally, the meeting with artists scheduled for February 17 at the renowned Cinecittà film studio will not take place, as the Pope will be unable to attend.
The health condition of the 87-year-old Pontiff remains under medical supervision. He has been battling bronchitis for several days and was previously forced to reduce his participation in public events, delegating the reading of his speeches to assistants.
Earlier, it was reported that Ukrainian Mykola Bychok will become the youngest cardinal among the 21 newly appointed cardinals announced by Pope Francis on October 6. The new cardinals come from 13 countries, including Ukraine.
It was also reported that Pope Francis arrived in Belgium, where he met with the king, held a Mass, and delivered a message on the country’s role in strengthening peace and unity in Europe.