The Vatican has unveiled the first official photograph of Pope Francis following his recent hospitalization. The image depicts the Pope in the chapel of Rome's Gemelli hospital, dressed in a stole, a traditional vestment worn during the celebration of Mass. This marks a significant moment, as it is the first time the Vatican has shared a photo of the pontiff since his hospitalization over a month ago.
In a positive update, the Vatican announced on Sunday that Pope Francis has actively participated in the sacrament by concelebrating Mass in the hospital chapel. The term 'concelebration' involves multiple priests presiding over the Mass, indicating that the Pope is not just passively attending services or receiving the Eucharist, as he had been doing in recent weeks.
Despite being hospitalized for pneumonia, which has led to the longest stay of his papacy, the 88-year-old pontiff continues his treatments and therapies diligently. According to the Vatican, he maintained a busy schedule on Sunday and did not receive any visitors.
Earlier that day, Pope Francis expressed his heartfelt gratitude to all well-wishers for their prayers during this challenging time. In a message shared ahead of his weekly Angelus prayer, he referred to this period as a “trial.” Just after 5:30 a.m. ET, a group of schoolchildren gathered in the hospital plaza to show their support, holding yellow and white balloons—colors representing the Holy See—and cheering “viva il papa.”
The children prayed the Angelus together and even brought balloons and flowers into the hospital as a gesture of affection. In his message, the Pope acknowledged, “I thank you all for your prayers, and I thank those who assist me with such dedication. I know that many children are praying for me; some of them came here today to ‘Gemelli’ as a sign of closeness. Thank you, dearest children! The Pope loves you and is always waiting to meet you.”
In his address, Pope Francis urged continued prayers for peace in regions afflicted by conflict, specifically mentioning Ukraine, Palestine, Israel, Lebanon, Myanmar, Sudan, and the Democratic Republic of the Congo. The Vatican press office reported on Saturday that the Pope remains in stable condition but still requires ongoing medical treatment.
Notably, the need for non-invasive mechanical ventilation, which he has been using at night, has gradually decreased as he continues to benefit from high-flow oxygen therapy during the day. Despite the challenges posed by his hospitalization, Pope Francis has shown determination to remain in his role, recently approving a new three-year reform process for the Catholic Church.
This story will continue to be updated as more information becomes available regarding the health and activities of Pope Francis.
