One month after being hospitalized for bronchitis that developed into pneumonia, the Pope’s condition remains stable as he continues to recover.

A Vatican medical bulletin released Saturday stated that the Holy Father’s clinical condition remains stable, confirming the progress seen over the past week.

This was the first medical update in three days.

While at Gemelli hospital, the Pope approved a three-year reform project aimed at making the Church more welcoming.

He also spent the day in prayer and rest.

According to the Vatican, the Pope is still receiving high-flow oxygen therapy, which is gradually reducing his need for non-invasive mechanical ventilation at night and helping his lungs function better.

The bulletin added that the Holy Father still requires hospital medical therapy, motor, and respiratory physiotherapy, noting “gradual improvements” from these therapies.

Francis was initially admitted to the hospital on February 14 after a week-long battle with bronchitis worsened, eventually becoming double pneumonia.

His health improved significantly this week, with the Vatican stating he was “out of danger of death.”

On Wednesday, the 88-year-old participated in spiritual exercises, received the Eucharist, prayed, and underwent physical therapy.

This week marked the 12th anniversary of the Pope’s election to lead the Church.

The Pope’s condition has been complicated by the removal of part of his lung as a child due to a pulmonary infection.

A chest X-ray on Tuesday confirmed the improvements observed by medical staff in previous days, but his situation remains “complex,” requiring a longer hospital stay.

An X-ray this week confirmed that his infection was clearing.

The Vatican announced that the Pope’s condition has improved to the point where updates will only be provided when new information is available.

The next update is expected in the middle of next week, according to the Vatican.

Earlier this month, the Pope released a message, which was played in St. Peter’s Square, thanking people for their well-wishes.

However, for the past four Sundays, the blessing traditionally given by the Pope from a window overlooking St. Peter’s Square has only been delivered in written form.

The pontiff participated in Lenten spiritual exercises from the hospital this week and received well-wishing cards and a cake to commemorate his 12th anniversary as Pope.

As the Pope continues his treatments, the nuns who operate the Vatican’s switchboard are receiving calls from concerned individuals about his health.

Sister Anthony, who manages the operation from an office near St. Peter’s Basilica, told the Associated Press, “They feel like children waiting to know about their father. We tell them to pray for him.”

By Elizabeth Pritchett and