The Vatican released a new photograph of Pope Francis after over a month, showing him in a wheelchair at his personal hospital chapel. He was wearing a purple stole, a Lenten liturgical vestment, as he participated in Mass with other priests at the Gemelli hospital. The pope had been hospitalized on Feb. 14 due to chronic bronchitis and double pneumonia. Doctors reported that he was no longer in critical condition but highlighted the complexity of his situation due to his age and past lung issues. The pope’s condition has been gradually improving, with medical bulletins mentioning a reduction in the use of a ventilation mask at night. Children, including those from war-torn countries, gathered outside the hospital to show support for the pontiff on his fifth Sunday in the hospital. The children’s presence was described as a form of spiritual medicine for the 88-year-old pope, bringing him joy and comfort during his recovery.
“She expressed, ‘I penned, ‘Pope Francis, may you recover swiftly and come back home soon.’ We adore you, and all the children are praying for you.’ Andrea Iacomini, the spokesperson for UNICEF in Italy, highlighted that in addition to showing their affection for the pope, the group also aimed to voice ‘enough’ to conflicts that are negatively impacting 500 million children in 59 countries. ‘This pope is not only a religious figure but also a remarkable global leader. A man of peace. This pope is the pope of the children,’ Iacomini emphasized.
Francis, who has not been seen in public since his hospitalization, usually delivers the Angelus from a window overlooking St. Peter’s Square to the increasing number of faithful, particularly during the Jubilee year initiated by Francis in December. In a written message, Francis expressed his concern for those who, like him, are in a fragile condition. ‘Our bodies may be weak, but even so, nothing can prevent us from loving, praying, giving ourselves, and being there for one another, radiating signs of hope,’ the pope stated.
Visitors to the Vatican are now also making a stop at Gemelli, a hospital a short train ride from St. Peter’s, in addition to seeking indulgences by passing through the basilica’s Holy Door. Since being hospitalized with bronchitis, double pneumonia, and a polymicrobial infection, Francis has faced various health challenges, including respiratory crises, mild kidney failure, and severe coughing fits. His condition has recently stabilized after a turbulent initial three weeks in the hospital.
The Vatican announced that the next medical update will not be provided until mid-week.——Associated Press video journalist Francesca Primavilla contributed to this report.”
