Pope Francis was briefly hospitalized for diagnostic tests after suffering from flu symptoms for several days.
The 86-year-old Pope has had various health issues in recent years, including colon surgery in 2021 and respiratory illness late last year.
He has been using a cane and wheelchair for mobility.
This week’s hospital visit occurred two months after Francis approved blessings for same-sex couples, which the Vatican clarified did not endorse same-sex marriage.
In response, US Catholic bishops published guidance distinguishing between liturgical and pastoral blessings, reaffirming Church teaching on marriage while seeking to offer pastoral support through blessings.
The United States Conference of Catholic Bishops (USCCB) wrote, “The Declaration issued today by the Vatican’s Dicastery for the Doctrine of the Faith (DDF) articulated a distinction between liturgical (sacramental) blessings, and pastoral blessings, which may be given to persons who desire God’s loving grace in their lives.”
The bishops continued, “The Church’s teaching on marriage has not changed, and this declaration affirms that, while also making an effort to accompany people through the imparting of pastoral blessings because each of us needs God’s healing love and mercy in our lives.”
The brief hospitalization came as Francis deals with ongoing health problems requiring assistance with movement.
