The pope has faced several health challenges in recent years, including knee problems requiring a wheelchair, respiratory infections, and a fall resulting in a forearm contusion.

Pope Francis is suffering from bronchitis but plans to maintain his scheduled appointments in the coming days, the Vatican said on Thursday.

"Me, with my bronchitis, I cannot (read) still," the pope said. "I hope that next time I can." Francis, 88, has been pope since 2013 and has suffered from influenza and other health problems several times over the past two years.

Pope Francis, 88, told the public at his weekly Vatican audience that he is still recovering from bronchitis and was unable to read his prepared speech. The pope once again asked an aide to deliver his remarks,