VATICAN CITY - Pope Francis is “gradually improving” and he is proceeding with his course of treatment whilst “resuming his work," announced the Director of the Press Office of the Holy See, Matteo Bruni, on Thursday. The possibility for a recourse to a "Plan B" for the scheduled Easter Holy Week liturgies remains, however.

 Bruni went on to say " His Holiness Pope Francis rested well during the night … This morning after breakfast, he read some newspapers and resumed his work. Before lunch he went to the chapel of the private apartment, where he gathered in prayer and received the Eucharist."

 Nonetheless, there is still the possibility that a "Plan B" for the upcoming Easter Holy week will be instated - without Pope Francis. The master of papal liturgical celebrations, Monsignor Diego Ravelli, has identified several cardinals who will replace the Pope in the numerous liturgies scheduled.

 Cardinal Leonardo Sandri, Vice-Dean of the College of Cardinals, will celebrate Palm Sunday Mass on 2 April in St. Peter's Square.

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