Pope Francis Observes Ash Wednesday in Hospital Amid Pneumonia Treatment

On Ash Wednesday, March 5, 2025, Pope Francis marked the beginning of Lent from his hospital room in Rome, where he has been receiving treatment for double pneumonia since February 14. Despite his complex health condition, the Vatican reported that he remained stable and participated in a private prayer service, receiving ashes and the Eucharist. Many Catholics worldwide, including those in South Florida and Cleveland, gathered for mass and offered prayers for the Pope's recovery, reflecting on the significance of the ashes as a reminder of human fragility. Cardinal Angelo De Donatis delivered a homily prepared by the Pope at the Basilica of Saint Sabina in Rome, underscoring the importance of Lent as a time for prayer, fasting, and charity. In light of the Pope's health challenges, various churches, including Christ the King Church in Worcester, saw increased attendance as parishioners expressed their support and prayers for him. The Pope's health updates indicated he was undergoing respiratory therapies and remained in good spirits during his treatment.