Vatican prepares funeral rehearsal for Pope Francis amid health concerns

Reports have emerged that the Swiss Guard is rehearsing Pope Francis’ funeral arrangements as concerns over his health grow following his hospitalization for pneumonia.

Swiss newspaper Blick claims that security personnel have been placed under curfew in preparation for the pontiff’s potential passing.

The 88-year-old Pope was admitted to Rome’s Gemelli Hospital on Friday after experiencing severe chest pain. Doctors diagnosed him with a “complex” respiratory infection, later confirmed to be pneumonia with asthmatic bronchitis, requiring intensive cortisone antibiotic treatment. The Vatican has since acknowledged the seriousness of his condition, noting that his “clinical picture remains complex.”

Francis, who had part of his lung removed in his youth, has previously stated that he had already prepared his tomb, though his burial plans would break with tradition. Now, sources close to the Pope have claimed that he privately admitted, “I might not make it this time,” according to a report by Politico.

Italian Cardinal Angelo Comastri reassured the faithful, saying, “Francis is very calm. His helm is in the hands of the Lord.” Meanwhile, people have gathered outside the Gemelli Hospital to pray for his recovery.

Medical experts remain cautious about his prognosis. Infectious disease specialist Dr. Carmelo D’Asero noted that while Francis is not running a fever, this could indicate a weaker immune response, further complicating his condition.

The Vatican has not disclosed how long the Pope will remain hospitalized, only stating that the severity of his illness has required multiple adjustments to his treatment plan.