Vatican releases first image of Pope Francis since hospitalisation

The Vatican has released the first photograph of Pope Francis since he was admitted to Gemelli Hospital in Rome over a month ago, where he has been undergoing treatment for pneumonia in both of his lungs.

The image shows the 88-year-old pontiff, wearing a white robe and purple shawl, seated in a wheelchair in front of a simple altar with a crucifix on the wall in the hospital’s chapel.

Photo: REUTERS

This photograph marks the first public appearance of the pope since his hospitalization on February 14. For weeks, the Vatican had reported that the pope’s condition was critical, with doctors closely monitoring his health.

The release of the photograph signifies his improvement, as the pope was seen praying and concelebrating Mass, a significant milestone in his recovery. Concelebrating Mass means participating with other senior clerics in the celebration of Mass, going beyond just receiving the Eucharist or being present in the service.

The Vatican Press Office shared that the pope participated in Mass at the Gemelli Hospital chapel, located on the hospital’s 10th floor, where he has been staying. It was the first time the pontiff had taken such an active role in Mass during his hospitalisation.

In a statement, the Vatican confirmed that Pope Francis remains in stable condition, although he still requires ongoing medical treatments. The pope continues to receive high-flow oxygen therapy during the day, while he has been using non-invasive mechanical ventilation only at night.

Earlier on Sunday, the pope expressed his gratitude in a message shared with the faithful in his weekly Angelus prayer. He thanked people for their continued prayers and support, especially children who had gathered outside the hospital earlier that day.

The children, waving yellow and white balloons—colours representing the Holy See—sang and prayed for the pope’s health. In his message, Francis acknowledged that he was feeling “fragile” and referred to his ongoing battle with health issues 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, including Ukraine, Palestine, Israel, Lebanon, Myanmar, Sudan, and the Democratic Republic of the Congo.

Despite his ongoing recovery, Pope Francis has shown a strong desire to continue his papal duties. In the past week, he approved a new three-year reform process for the Catholic Church, signifying his intention to remain active in his role despite health challenges.

Pope Francis also thanked the hospital staff and those assisting him for their dedication and support. The Vatican Press Office confirmed that the pope was not receiving any visitors on Sunday, focusing solely on his recovery and treatment.

Earlier in the day, dozens of schoolchildren gathered at the Gemelli Hospital piazza in Rome, holding balloons and flowers to show their support for the pope. After praying the Angelus together, the children entered the hospital to present their gifts and well wishes.

Francis expressed his deep appreciation for their gesture, saying, “The Pope loves you and is always waiting to meet you.”

The Vatican has promised to provide further updates on his health in the coming days.