For the third consecutive week, Pope Francis has been unable to deliver his traditional Angelus prayer in person, with the Vatican instead publishing a written message from his hospital room in Rome. The Pope, who has been receiving medical care at Gemelli Hospital, expressed his gratitude for the prayers and support he has received from Catholics around the world.
“I feel as if I am ‘carried’ and supported by all God’s people. Thank you all!” the Pope wrote in his message. He also reflected on the strength found in moments of frailty, stating that such times deepen trust in the Lord. “I feel in my heart the ‘blessing’ that is hidden within frailty, because it is precisely in these moments that we learn even more to trust in the Lord,” he shared.
The Vatican reported that Pope Francis spent Sunday morning resting after a peaceful night. He had breakfast with coffee, continued his therapy, and engaged in his usual routine of reading newspapers. He also received two visitors—Vatican Secretary of State Cardinal Pietro Parolin and his deputy, Monsignor Edgar Pena Parra—though no details were provided regarding their discussions or the length of their visit.
Concerns over the Pope’s health escalated on Friday when he suffered a second breathing crisis. Although he required additional oxygen support, he was not intubated. By Saturday evening, the Vatican stated that his condition had stabilized, and he was alert, without fever, and eating normally.
Despite his hospitalization, Pope Francis did not neglect his spiritual and humanitarian responsibilities. In his Sunday Angelus message, he prayed for peace in conflict-stricken regions, including Ukraine, Palestine, and Israel. “From here, war appears even more absurd,” he wrote, emphasizing the need for global solidarity and reconciliation.
Traditionally, visitors to the Vatican gather on St. Peter’s Square to witness the Pope’s Angelus blessing from a window in the Apostolic Palace. However, Pope Francis, who prefers the simpler accommodations of the Vatican’s Santa Marta guesthouse, has remained absent due to his ongoing health issues.
As he continues his recovery, the Catholic community remains united in prayer, hoping for his swift return to public appearances.
