The Vatican published the first photograph of Pope Francis since he was admitted to the Gemelli Hospital in Rome over a month ago, where he followed a pneumonia treatment in his two lungs.
The image shows the 88 -year -old pontiff, wearing a white dress and a purple shawl, seated in a wheelchair in front of a simple altar with a crucifix on the wall of the hospital chapel.
Photo: Reuters
This photograph marks the Pope’s first public appearance since his hospitalization on February 14. For weeks, the Vatican had pointed out that the state of the Pope was critical, the doctors closely monitoring his health.
The release of photography means its improvement, because the Pope was seen praying and concealed mass, an important step in his recovery. Concellebrant mass means participating with other clerics superior to the celebration of mass, go beyond the simple reception of the Eucharist or be present at the service.
The Vatican press office shared that the Pope had participated in the Mass in the chapel of the Gemelli Hospital, located on the 10th floor of the hospital, where he was staying. It was the first time that the pontiff played such an active role in the mass during his hospitalization.
In a press release, the Vatican confirmed that Pope Francis remains in a stable state, although he always needs ongoing medical treatments. The Pope continues to receive high -speed oxygen therapy during the day, while he did not use non -invasive mechanical ventilation than at night.
Earlier Sunday, the Pope expressed his gratitude in a message shared with the faithful in his weekly Angelus prayer. He thanked people for their prayers and their continuous support, especially the children who had gathered outside the hospital earlier during the day.
Children, waving yellow and white balloons – Coloric representing the holy see – Song and prayed for the health of the Pope. In his message, Francis recognized that he felt “fragile” and referred to his current battle against health problems as a “period of trial”.
The Pope also shared a message of hope and peace, calling on people to pray for countries affected by war, notably Ukraine, Palestine, Israel, Lebanon, Myanmar, Sudan and the Democratic Republic of Congo.
Despite his current recovery, Pope Francis has shown a strong desire to continue his papal functions. During last week, he approved a new three -year reform process for the Catholic Church, meaning his intention to remain active in his role despite the challenges of health.
Pope Francis also thanked the hospital staff and those who help him for their dedication and support. The Vatican press office confirmed that the Pope received no visitor on Sunday, focusing solely on his recovery and treatment.
Earlier in the day, dozens of schoolchildren gathered at the Gemelli Piazza hospital in Rome, holding balloons and flowers to show their support for the Pope. After praying to Angelus together, the children entered the hospital to present their gifts and their good wishes.
Francis expressed his deep appreciation for their gesture, saying: “The Pope loves you and is still waiting to meet you.”
The Vatican has promised to provide other updates on its health in the coming days.
