Pope Francis, recovering from double pneumonia, expressed gratitude on Sunday to volunteers for their compassionate care towards the sick. After more than three weeks in the hospital, the 88-year-old pontiff is responding well to treatment, showing a gradual improvement. Despite his absence from his weekly blessing for the fourth Sunday in a row, the Vatican shared the message he would have delivered.
In the message, the pope thanked those caring for him and other sick individuals, recognizing the importance of service and tenderness during times of adversity. His doctors reported positive news of his stable condition and good response to therapy, although his prognosis remains guarded. The pope is continuing to receive treatment for the complex lung infection that led to his hospitalization on Feb. 14. While he rests and receives care, the Vatican functions normally, including ongoing celebrations of the Holy Year.
Even in his absence, Pope Francis remains the leader of the Catholic Church, with Cardinal Michael Czerny presiding over the Holy Year Mass for volunteers. Despite his health challenges, the pope’s papal authority endures, symbolized by the presence of his coat of arms during the Mass in St. Peter’s Square.
Throughout his hospitalization, Pope Francis has been using supplemental oxygen during the day and a mechanical ventilation mask at night to aid his breathing. His prolonged illness has raised concerns about the future, given the complexities of his respiratory infection and recovery process.
The AP’s religion coverage, supported by collaboration with The Conversation US and funding from Lilly Endowment Inc., aims to provide accurate and informative reporting on important developments within the Catholic Church.
