Pope Francis spent the 12th anniversary of his election as 266th Pope of the Catholic Church in the hospital, completing 27 days of hospitalization at Rome’s Gemelli Polyclinic. In the afternoon, the hospital’s medical staff surprised him with a cake and candles to mark the occasion.

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Despite the complexity of his condition, the Holy See Press Office confirmed that the Pope’s health remains stable. This marks the eighth consecutive day without a major health crisis. A chest X-ray conducted on Tuesday, March 11, confirmed continued improvement in his condition. However, he still requires high-flow oxygen therapy during the day and non-invasive mechanical ventilation at night.

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On Wednesday, March 12, the Holy Father participated remotely in the Curia’s Spiritual Exercises from Paul VI Hall. He began his day by receiving the Eucharist, engaging in prayer, and undergoing motor physiotherapy. In the afternoon, he continued with rest, prayer, and respiratory physiotherapy.

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This marks the first time in 12 years that Pope Francis has spent his election anniversary hospitalized. Despite the circumstances, his commitment to prayer and his spiritual responsibilities remains unwavering.