Pope Francis, 88, continues his papal duties despite a recent bout of illness, giving his support to a significant church reform while still in the hospital.

Released on Sunday, the photo shows the Pope from behind, facing an altar after participating in a mass in a chapel within the hospital.

Pope Francis was admitted to Rome’s Gemelli Hospital on the 14th of February to treat a severe respiratory infection, and he has not appeared in public since then.

In the photo, he is seen breathing without support, which is a positive sign in his recovery process.

There has been a strong desire from journalists and the faithful to see the Pope, considering the last picture was published over a month ago, as reported by Vatican News.

After his hospitalization, he released an audio message on the 6th of March, expressing gratitude to those praying for his recovery, showing signs of fatigue.

Regarding his health, the Vatican reported that while the situation is stable, it remains a complex clinical case due to his age, limited mobility, and a previous lung surgery when younger.

However, the Pope has continued to carry out his duties. On Saturday, he gave his approval to a three-year plan that will implement and evaluate a reform project aimed at making the Roman Catholic Church more inclusive and responsive.

The Vatican’s Synod of Bishops office shared a timetable for the implementation of these reforms through 2028, confirming that Francis endorsed the plan the previous week.