Pope Francis released his first photo since being hospitalized 31 days ago on Sunday, showing him celebrating Mass with priests and wearing a purple stole during the season of Lent. The pope’s condition has been stable for the past week, and he continues to undergo motor and respiratory physiotherapy.
Francis was seen facing the altar in his private chapel at the Policlinico A Gemelli hospital in Rome, where he has been receiving treatment since February 14. He did not appear at the windows of his 10th-floor suite but acknowledged the presence of children gathered outside who had held up signs and chanted “Papa Francesco” and cheered “Viva la Pace”.
The Vatican said that Francis was benefiting from his physiotherapy, which includes both motor and respiratory treatments. The pontiff’s age – 88 – and pre-existing lung disease make his condition complex, but doctors have reported gradual improvements.
Francis acknowledged his frailty in a written address, saying he is facing a period of trial and joining with others who are sick. He emphasized the importance of loving, praying, giving oneself, and being for each other in faith, despite physical limitations. The pope’s release comes as children from Caivano, Italy, held a rally outside the hospital, calling him their “pope of peace” and hero in a contemporary world where heroes are scarce.
Source: https://www.nytimes.com/2025/03/16/world/europe/children-cheer-pope-francis-hospital.html