Pope Francis was released by the Vatican on Sunday with his first photo since being hospitalized 31 days ago, showing him facing an altar in a chapel within his private hospital suite in Rome.
The pope attended Mass with other priests for the first time since admission and continued his physiotherapy, which he is said to be benefiting from. The Vatican reported that Pope Francis’ condition has been stable for the past week and that doctors are gradually reducing his need for noninvasive mechanical ventilation at night, replacing it with high-flow oxygen therapy.
Dozens of children gathered outside the hospital to show their support, holding up signs and cheering for the pope’s recovery. The Rev. Enzo Fortunato, president of the pontifical committee for World Children’s Day, said that children can transmit joy and their presence was a “symbolic medicine” for Pope Francis.
The pope acknowledged his frailty in a written address, saying he is facing a period of trial but remains committed to loving, praying, and giving himself for others. The 88-year-old pontiff’s condition remains complex due to age and pre-existing lung disease, which required part of his right lung to be removed in 1957.
The photo was taken during the season of Lent, with Pope Francis wearing a purple stole.
Source: https://www.nytimes.com/2025/03/16/world/europe/pope-francis-hospital-photo.html