Vatican City, March 7, 2025 – Pope Francis has addressed the public for the first time since being hospitalized with pneumonia three weeks ago.
In a frail yet heartfelt message, the 88-year-old pontiff expressed gratitude for the prayers and support he has received. His voice was heard during a recorded message played before the evening rosary prayer at St. Peter’s Square, where gatherings have been held nightly in his honor since his illness.
Speaking in Spanish, Pope Francis said:
"I thank you from the bottom of my heart for your prayers for my health from the Square. I accompany you from here. May God bless you and the Virgin protect you. Thank you."
His voice was noticeably labored and slow, underscoring the seriousness of his condition. However, Vatican officials confirmed that his health remains stable, with no new episodes of respiratory failure.
Pope Francis’ Health Status
The Vatican reported that while the Pope experienced two episodes of respiratory distress on Monday, his condition has since improved. Medical assessments indicate stable blood tests and no fever, a reassuring sign for the Holy Father’s recovery.
As a result, the Vatican has decided to suspend daily medical updates, with the next official report scheduled for Saturday.
On Wednesday, the Pope remained seated throughout the day, using a breathing mask overnight and continuing to receive nasal oxygen therapy. His treatment regimen has also been adjusted to include intensified respiratory physiotherapy and active motor therapy. However, Vatican insiders acknowledge that his mobility remains limited, noting that there is "not an awful lot of movement going on."
Continued Recovery at Rome’s Gemelli Hospital
Since February 14, Pope Francis has been receiving treatment at Rome’s Gemelli Hospital, where his "complex" clinical condition continues to be carefully managed.
On Ash Wednesday, despite his absence from public observances, the Pope participated in the rite of blessing of the Holy Ashes from his hospital quarters. He received the Eucharist in the morning and later engaged in limited work activities, including a phone call with Fr. Gabriel Romanelli, parish priest of the Holy Family of Gaza. The remainder of the day was spent alternating between rest and work.
Lenten Observances Without Pope Francis
For the first time in his papacy, Pope Francis was absent from the Vatican’s traditional Ash Wednesday observance, marking the beginning of Lent. Cardinal Angelo De Donatis led the ceremony on the Aventine Hill, symbolizing the start of the 40-day period of fasting and reflection leading up to Easter.
Despite his physical absence, Pope Francis’ presence was deeply felt as the faithful around the world continue to pray for his full recovery.
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