For the third consecutive week, Pope Francis has not been able to deliver his customary Angelus prayer in person, with the Vatican releasing his written remarks instead. The text, which was sent from the Pope’s hospital room in Rome, was composed “in the past few days.” In the message, the Pope expressed gratitude for the people’s prayers and appreciation for the care he has received from his medical team. He wrote, “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.” Additionally, the Pope thanked God for the opportunity to share in both body and spirit the experiences of many sick and suffering individuals. The Pope also assured Catholics worldwide of their affection and closeness, stating, “I feel as if I am ‘carried’ and supported by all God’s people. Thank you all!”
According to the latest update from the Vatican, Pope Francis had a peaceful night and is currently resting. On Sunday, he enjoyed breakfast with coffee, continued his therapy, and read newspapers as he typically does. Additionally, he received two visitors, Vatican Secretary of State Cardinal Parolin and Monsignor Pena Parra, at the Gemelli hospital, marking the first outside visitors since last Monday. However, no information was provided on the duration or content of their meeting.
The Pope experienced a second breathing crisis on Friday, after which he required additional oxygen support, but he was not intubated. By Saturday evening, his condition stabilized, with no fever or further breathing difficulties. He was described as being alert and eating normally.
In his Sunday Angelus message, the Pope prayed for peace, particularly in regions such as “tormented Ukraine, Palestine, Israel,” emphasizing that from his perspective, war appears even more absurd. On Sundays, visitors usually gather in St Peter’s Square to see the Pope appear at a window in the Apostolic Palace, but Pope Francis resides in the Vatican’s Santa Marta guesthouse, preferring its simpler setting.
Source: https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/c2kgqdkx9jxo
