Pope Francis has restful night amid clinical improvements

By Vatican News

"As in recent days, the night passed calmly, and the Pope is now resting," read a Holy See Press Office statement on Friday morning, as Pope Francis receives treatment for bilateral pneumonia at Rome's Gemelli Hospital.

After waking up this morning, the Holy Father ate breakfast and read a few newspapers. He continues his treatment and breathing physiotherapy.

The Vatican also announced on Friday that Cardinal Angelo De Donatis, Major Penitentiary of Apostolic Penitentiary, will preside at the traditional celebration of the Ash Wednesday liturgy on the Aventine, which will take place on 5 March.

According to the Thursday evening press release, the Pope's clinical condition continued to improve, though it remains "complex." The Press Office added that his prognosis remains guarded.

"He alternated high-flow oxygen therapy with a Ventimask. Due to the complexity of the clinical picture, further days of clinical stability are needed to clarify the prognosis," said the Thursday statement.

He spent Thursday afternoon in prayer in the chapel of his private apartment at the Gemelli hospital and received the Eucharist. He also engaged in several work-related activities.