The Holy See Press Office has reported that Pope Francis is steadily recovering at his residence in the Casa Santa Marta, following his recent hospitalization for a polymicrobial infection that caused bilateral pneumonia.

The 87-year-old Pope was released from Gemelli Hospital on Sunday, 23 March, under what the Vatican described as a "protected discharge." Since then, his condition has shown gradual improvement, particularly in terms of respiratory function, mobility, and vocal strength.

According to the latest updates, Pope Francis has been continuing his treatment regimen, which includes physical therapy focused on respiratory and mobility support. He is able to spend long periods without requiring supplemental oxygen, only using high-flow oxygen via nasal cannulas in the evening or when necessary.

Despite his health challenges, Pope remains active in his duties. He continues to receive collaborators from the Roman Curia and carries out his regular work commitments. Among his recent visitors was Cardinal Marcello Semeraro, who met with the Pope to discuss the promulgation of decrees concerning the causes of saints.

As the Church approaches Holy Week, the Vatican confirmed that it is still too early to confirm whether Pope Francis will take part personally in the upcoming liturgies, including the Easter Triduum. However, the Press Office assured that all relevant updates will be communicated as they become available.

In the meantime, it was announced that Pope Francis has personally written the meditations for the traditional Good Friday Via Crucis at the Colosseum in Rome. These meditations are expected to be published at noon on Good Friday by the Press Office.

The Vatican also shared the schedule and the names of prelates who will preside over key Holy Week celebrations. On Holy Thursday morning, the Chrism Mass at St. Peter’s Basilica will be led by Cardinal Domenico Calcagno, President Emeritus of the Administration of the Patrimony of the Apostolic See (APSA). That evening, the Mass in Coena Domini will take place at 6 p.m. in the Basilica, but it will not be celebrated in a papal chapel.

On Good Friday, Cardinal Claudio Gugerotti, Prefect of the Dicastery for Eastern Churches, will preside over the Passion Liturgy in St. Peter’s Basilica. Later in the evening, Cardinal Baldo Reina, Vicar General of Rome, will lead the Via Crucis at the Colosseum.

The Holy See Press Office will offer another briefing on Friday to provide further updates regarding Pope’s health and potential participation in the Holy Week liturgies.