Pope Francis, 88, remains hospitalized with a complex respiratory infection, prompting the Vatican to cancel his audiences through the weekend.

His illness raises concerns about the upcoming Holy Year events, expected to draw 30 million pilgrims.

The pope, who has a history of lung issues, was admitted after worsening bronchitis and is receiving treatment at Rome’s Gemelli hospital.

While he continues working from the hospital, a bishop will replace him at scheduled Jubilee Masses, the Associated Press has reported.

His condition has already sidelined him longer than a previous 2023 pneumonia-related hospitalization.

Written by B.C. Begley