Pope Francis’s Health Update: A Message of Gratitude and Hope
Rome, Italy
Pope Francis, who has been hospitalised at Rome’s Gemelli Hospital since February 14, has been responding well to treatment for pneumonia, according to the Vatican. In a written Angelus message, the 88-year-old pontiff thanked his doctors and healthcare workers for their care and compassion.
A Message of Gratitude
In his message, Pope Francis expressed his gratitude to those who volunteer to help others in need, praising their "closeness and tenderness." He also thanked the doctors and healthcare workers, saying, "I too experience the thoughtfulness of service and the tenderness of care, in particular from the doctors and healthcare workers, whom I thank from the bottom of my heart."
A Call to Action
Pope Francis noted that "we need this, the ‘miracle of tenderness’ which accompanies those who are in adversity, bringing a little light into the night of pain." He called on people to continue showing compassion and kindness to those in need, saying, "We need this miracle of tenderness to bring peace and serenity to everyone."
A Symbolic Gesture
As Pope Francis missed delivering the fourth straight Angelus prayer in person, he received Italian Cardinal Pietro Parolin, the Vatican’s secretary of state, and Edgar Pena Parra, a Venezuelan archbishop who is also a senior Vatican official. The pope continued his treatment, doing both his physiotherapy and his breathing exercises, and followed spiritual exercises being held at the Vatican via video link.
A Show of Support
People who gathered in St Peter’s Square on Sunday, where Pope Francis would usually stand at a Vatican window to read the Angelus to crowds below, said his presence was sorely missed. "He is a wonderful person who has given so much and I hope that he can return as soon as possible," said Diana Desiderio, a volunteer with the civil protection agency in the Italian city of Pescara. "We need him to return to the window again and bring peace and serenity to everyone, because we need it."
A Complex Situation
Pope Francis’s hospitalisation has been more serious than previous ones, with the 88-year-old suffering several respiratory crises. While his doctors have seen a gradual, slight improvement, they want to see more positive results in the coming days before giving a prognosis.
Faith and Hope
As Pope Francis continues his recovery, Catholics around the world are praying for his health and well-being. His message of gratitude and hope serves as a reminder of the importance of compassion, kindness, and tenderness in the face of adversity.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What is Pope Francis’s current condition?
A: Pope Francis is responding well to treatment for pneumonia and has seen a gradual, slight improvement.
Q: How long will it take for Pope Francis to recover?
A: The Vatican has not given a specific timeline for Pope Francis’s recovery, but his doctors want to see more positive results in the coming days before giving a prognosis.
Q: Can Pope Francis return to his duties as pope?
A: The Vatican will continue to provide updates on Pope Francis’s condition, and a decision on his return to his duties as pope will be made when he is well enough to resume them.