Pope Francis acknowledged his fragility and described himself as ”facing a period of trial” on Sunday, as he thanked well-wishers for their prayers in a heartfelt message from the hospital where he has been receiving treatment for pneumonia.
The 88-year-old pope, who has been hospitalized since February 14, shared a particularly personal message with the faithful. This marked the fifth time that the pope’s health has prevented him from delivering the traditional Angelus prayer in person to the crowds gathered in St. Peter’s Square.
In his message, Pope Francis expressed solidarity with those who are also suffering, writing, ”I am sharing these thoughts with you while I am facing a period of trial, and I join with so many brothers and sisters who are sick: fragile, at this time, like me.”
He further reflected on the strength that faith and love can provide, saying, ”Our bodies are weak but, even like this, nothing can prevent us from loving, praying, giving ourselves, being for each other, in faith, shining signs of hope.”
Last week, the Vatican confirmed that the pope was no longer in danger after he had suffered a series of breathing crises that had raised fears for his life.
On Saturday, the Vatican reported that the pope’s condition remained stable and showed progress, although he still required ongoing therapies at the hospital.
”The Holy Father still requires hospital medical therapy, motor, and respiratory physiotherapy; these therapies, at present, are showing further, gradual improvements,” the Vatican said, addressing speculation about his potential release from the hospital.
In his Sunday message, Pope Francis also called for peace in war-torn countries and expressed gratitude to his medical team and those praying for him.
”How much light shines, in this sense, in hospitals and places of care! How much loving care illuminates the rooms, the corridors, the clinics, the places where the humblest services are performed!” he said.
Pope Francis is currently receiving care in a special papal suite on the 10th floor of the hospital, which includes a chapel. On Sunday morning, dozens of children from a Catholic scout group gathered outside the hospital, holding yellow and white balloons and chanting, ”Pope Francis, Pope Francis.”
”I know that many children are praying for me; some of them came here today to ‘Gemelli’ as a sign of closeness,” Pope Francis said, expressing his deep appreciation for their support.
