Pope Francis suffers health setback

Pope Francis suffered a bronchial spasm on Friday, leading to him inhaling vomit and requiring non-invasive mechanical ventilation. This incident marks a setback in his two-week recovery from double pneumonia at Gemelli University Hospital. The Vatican City — Vatican City has stated that Pope Francis remained conscious and alert, responding well to treatment, but his prognosis remains guarded. As a result, the Vatican City — Vatican City has made alternative arrangements for upcoming religious ceremonies, including Ash Wednesday, which will now be presided over by Cardinal Angelo De Donatis. Other events, such as a Holy Year audience, have been canceled, and his participation in Holy Week and Easter events is uncertain. Pope Francis also has major upcoming appointments, including the canonization of Carlo Acutis and a potential trip to Iznik, Turkey, with Bartholomew I of Constantinople, which may be affected by his health.