Pope Francis Continues Recovery Amid Hospital Stay, Expresses Solidarity with the Sick

ROME - Pope Francis, who has been hospitalized due to double pneumonia, received a visit from the Vatican Secretary of State on Sunday, marking another day of his ongoing recovery. Despite his stable condition, the Pope did not make his customary public appearance for the weekly Angelus blessing, choosing to remain in the hospital to minimize exposure.

In a message shared by the Vatican, Pope Francis expressed gratitude towards his medical team for their diligent care and thanked those who have offered prayers for his recovery. He also reiterated his call for peace in Ukraine and other troubled areas, noting the absurdity of war from his vantage point in the hospital.

"Living through this hospitalization has allowed me to connect deeply with those who are suffering," he stated, reflecting on the experience as one of profound solidarity with the sick. He emphasized the importance of trust in the Lord during such times of frailty.

This marked the third consecutive weekend that Pope Francis has skipped his scheduled public engagement. While he could have delivered the Angelus prayer from his hospital room, he opted to focus on his health.

Recent updates have indicated an improvement in the Pope's condition following a respiratory crisis that occurred on Friday. After experiencing a coughing fit, he inhaled vomit, which raised concerns about a potential new infection. However, subsequent reports from the Vatican noted that he had a quiet night and managed to enjoy breakfast and read the news, suggesting positive signs of recovery.

During the visit on Sunday, Cardinal Pietro Parolin and Archbishop Edgar Pena Parra met with the Pope, their second visit since he was admitted to the hospital on February 14. While specific details of their discussion were not disclosed, the visit implies a stabilization in the Pope's health.

Medical professionals reported that the Pope is showing favorable signs, including improved gas exchange levels while off the ventilator. He has been able to breathe using only high-flow supplemental oxygen, a positive indication of recovery. There were no signs of fever or elevated white blood cell counts, which would indicate an active infection.

Despite the progress, doctors remain cautious and have described the Pope's prognosis as guarded, underscoring that he is not yet out of danger. He continues his respiratory therapy and has even spent time in his private chapel, reflecting on his situation.

The Vatican is currently celebrating its Holy Year, attracting pilgrims from around the globe, many of whom are visiting the Gemelli hospital to pray for the Pope's health. Young people from Milan, who had hoped to attend the Angelus prayer, redirected their pilgrimage to the hospital to offer their support and prayers for the Pope during this challenging time.

Among those visiting the hospital was Antonino Cacace, a cancer patient arriving for his own treatment, who expressed hope for a personal meeting with the Pope, further illustrating the connection many feel with him during his illness.