Pope Francis, 88, faced a health scare on Friday when his breathing suddenly worsened, leading to an emergency response from doctors at Rome’s Gemelli Hospital. The Vatican confirmed the Pope experienced vomiting and a respiratory crisis but assured the public that his condition is now stable.

Doctors provided oxygen therapy, and by Saturday evening, they reported that Pope Francis responded well and was alert. His medical team noted that he spent the day alternating between wearing an oxygen mask and receiving high-flow oxygen, but he remained able to eat, pray, and receive the Eucharist.

Earlier reports suggested the Pope had a peaceful night and even enjoyed a morning coffee. However, experts cautioned that 24 to 48 hours were needed to assess if there was any lasting damage to his lungs, following the bronchospasm episode that led to his breathing difficulties.

This latest hospitalization follows a pattern of fluctuating health updates. The Pope had previously been treated for bronchitis and pneumonia in February, with concerns about his lung health due to a past partial lung removal from pleurisy.

Pope Francis’ prolonged absence from the public has raised concerns among Catholics, especially given his ongoing health battles. As the Vatican updates continue, anxiety grows, with Italian newspapers reporting, “Anxiety for the Pope returns.”