Pope Francis heard for first time since hospitalization

Pope Francis, who has been hospitalized for nearly three weeks due to double pneumonia, shared his first audio message since his admission, expressing gratitude for the prayers and well-wishes he has received from around the world. The message was played at the start of the rosary in St. Peter’s Square at the Vatican.

In his brief message, the Pope thanked everyone for their prayers for his health and assured them that he was accompanying them from the hospital. He invoked God’s blessings and protection upon them, expressing his heartfelt gratitude.

The pontiff’s condition remains stable and under close observation. He has not experienced any difficulty breathing and remains fever-free. Pope Francis spent a peaceful night and continued with his physical therapy at Rome’s Gemelli Hospital. The Vatican reported that he dedicated himself to work activities, prayer, and received the Eucharist before lunch.

While the Pope’s prognosis is guarded due to his underlying health conditions, including chronic lung disease, his doctors are pleased with his progress. He has been using a non-invasive mechanical mask at night to assist with proper lung expansion and transitioning to oxygen through a nasal tube during the day.

On Ash Wednesday, the start of Lent, the Pope received ashes on his forehead and reached out to a parish priest in Gaza. He added physical therapy to his daily routine as part of his recovery process. The Catholic Church commenced the Lenten season without the Pope’s physical presence, with a cardinal leading the penitential procession in his stead.

Despite his absence, the spiritual retreat planned for this weekend with the Holy See hierarchy will proceed in spiritual communion with the Pope. The theme of the retreat, “Hope in eternal life,” was chosen before his illness and will be a source of reflection and prayer for the participants.

As the faithful observe Lent with fasting and abstinence, Pope Francis continues to receive medical care and support from his doctors and well-wishers. His progress is closely monitored, and updates on his condition are expected to be provided on Saturday. Let us continue to keep the Pope in our prayers for a full and speedy recovery.