A breathless Pope Francis asked a priest Wednesday to read out his speech during the weekly audience, saying lingering bronchitis meant he was unable to do it himself.
“Let me ask the priest to continue to read, because I cannot yet, with my bronchitis. I hope that next time I can,” the 88-year-old said shortly after starting the speech.
Francis had also asked aides to read on his behalf at a mass on Sunday and at last Wednesday’s general audience.
He held meetings at home on February 6 and 7 in an attempt to rest and recover, the Holy See said.
The pope, who had part of one of his lungs removed as a young man, was admitted to hospital for three nights in 2023 with bronchitis, which was cured with antibiotics.
The Argentine pontiff has been plagued in recent years by health issues, from knee and hip pain to an inflamed colon. He also underwent surgery on a hernia.
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