Pope Francis, still hospitalized with pneumonia, released a frail audio message thanking believers for their prayers. As concerns over his health grow, the Vatican assures he remains stable, though he continues to rely on oxygen support.
Pope Francis, nearing three weeks in the hospital battling pneumonia, released an emotional audio message on Thursday, thanking the faithful for their prayers. His voice, frail and breathless, resonated through St. Peter’s Square as he assured believers of his spiritual presence despite his absence.
The Vatican confirmed that the 88-year-old Pontiff remains in a stable condition, with no recurrence of recent respiratory failures. While undergoing breathing exercises and physiotherapy, he has been relying on an oxygen mask at night and a nasal cannula during the day.
Despite missing key public appearances, including Ash Wednesday celebrations, Pope Francis continues to work privately. However, uncertainty looms over whether he will address the faithful during Sunday’s Angelus prayer. Cardinal Michael Czerny is set to lead Mass in his place this weekend.
Pilgrims have been gathering outside Rome’s Gemelli Hospital, praying for his recovery. The Vatican announced that a special prayer session will be held there on Saturday. While speculation about a potential resignation continues, the Holy See remains optimistic about his recovery.
As the world’s 1.4 billion Catholics watch closely, Pope Francis' battle with pneumonia underscores his enduring influence and the deep concern surrounding his health.
