Pope Francis recently expressed gratitude to his supporters for their prayers in a heartfelt audio message, which was shared in St. Peter’s Square prior to the nightly rosary. This was the first time his followers had the opportunity to hear his voice since his hospitalisation three weeks ago. Speaking slowly in Spanish and showing signs of breathlessness, the 88-year-old pontiff conveyed his appreciation: “I thank you from the bottom of my heart for your prayers for my health from the Square. May God bless you and the Virgin protect you. Thank you.”
The announcement brought cheers and applause from the gathered crowd, eager to hear their Pope’s message of thanks. Despite having sent written communications from his hospital bed, including updates on his health from the Vatican, this was the first direct communication with his audience after facing serious health issues. Pope Francis has been struggling with multiple lung-related ailments, including bronchitis and double pneumonia, marking his fourth and longest hospital stay since his papacy began in 2013. He has had pneumonia from a young age, which resulted in the removal of part of his lung.
Recent medical evaluations revealed a “reserved” health prognosis, particularly following a troubling episode of acute respiratory failure earlier in the week. However, the Vatican confirmed that he is currently stable and does not have a fever. On Thursday, he engaged in respiratory and motor physiotherapy, managing to keep an active schedule while receiving the Eucharist before lunch.
The Vatican has adjusted the Pope’s itinerary to support his intensive treatment schedule. Notably, he did not officiate the Ash Wednesday service, a rarity in his tenure, and has missed three consecutive weekends leading the Angelus prayer.
On Friday, Vatican sources reported that the Pope had a tranquil night, waking shortly after 8am local time. As he continues to navigate these health challenges, many of his followers remain hopeful for his recovery and keenly await further updates.