VATICAN CITY —  Roman Catholic officials say Pope John Paul (search) celebrated Mass today in his hospital suite in Rome.

The pope is in the hospital recovering from throat surgery and a relapse of the flu.

The Vatican says the pope has agreed to doctors' requests that he stay a few more days in the hospital. However, the church says he will return by March 20th.

Beyond celebrating Mass, the pope also met with bishops from Tanzania (search) today.

An Italian official visited the hospital today and says he was assured by the staff there that "the pope is doing well and will get out soon."