The Vatican has released the first photo of Pope Francis since his hospitalization, revealing that the pontiff’s condition remains stable, while his treatment is showing progress. According to a recent update from the Vatican on Sunday, March 16, Pope Francis continues to receive therapy to help him move and breathe, and he’s benefiting from the care. The update also mentions that the Pope has been working a bit and won’t be receiving any visitors for the time being.
The Vatican has shared a photo of Pope Francis, marking the first time the public has seen him since he was admitted to Rome’s Gemelli Hospital on February 14 for respiratory issues. It was later discovered that he had bronchitis, which has required ongoing treatment.
Earlier on Sunday, the Vatican’s press office released a recording of the Pope’s voice, which he had prerecorded on March 6. In the recording, played at the start of a prayer service in St. Peter’s Square, Pope Francis expressed his gratitude for the prayers for his health, saying, “From the bottom of my heart, I thank you for your prayers for my health from the square. I join you in prayer from here, and I ask God to bless you and the Virgin Mary to protect you all. Thank you.”
Notably, the Vatican also announced that on Sunday, Pope Francis participated in a Mass as a concelebrant for the first time since his hospitalization. Previously, he had only attended Mass from a small chapel on the 10th floor of the hospital.
The news of Pope Francis’s health has been closely followed by Catholics and non-Catholics alike, with many sending their well-wishes and prayers for his recovery. As the Pope continues to receive treatment, the Vatican’s updates have been providing reassurance about his condition, even as he faces ongoing health challenges.
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