Pope Francis has canceled his participation in a traditional Lent retreat, blaming his ongoing battle with a cold.
Coughing while giving his regular Sunday blessing to pilgrims, the Pope said he will not be attending the week-long spiritual exercises that he started to mark the beginning of Lent. The retreat is held in the Italian countryside.
The 83-year-old pontiff has been sick for several days and has canceled several official engagements. He lost part of a lung to a respiratory disease as young man.
He was also seen coughing and blowing his nose during Mass on Ash Wednesday.
RELATED STORIES
Pope Francis Coughing During Ash Wednesday Mass Sparks Concern as Coronavirus Grips Italy
Pope Francis Twirls Soccer Ball as Cuban Circus Performs at the Vatican
Little Boy Runs Onstage to Join Pope Francis, Rolls Around on Floor
Pope Cancels Mass Due to Illness After Voicing Support for Coronavirus Patients
