Suspending use of the mask means Francis’ lungs are working harder and better on their own. The Vatican is also again reducing its medical updates as Francis slowly continues his recovery, with the next one not expected before Monday.

The Vatican has released a game-changing medical report for Pope Francis, who has been getting treatment for bilateral pneumonia at Rome's Gemelli Hospital.

The Vatican released on Sunday the first photograph of Pope Francis in a month, showing the pontiff in a view from behind wearing a purple stole – typical of Lenten liturgical vestments – and sitting in a wheelchair before an altar at the hospital chapel.