Pope Francis is undergoing a “period of trial” as he recovers in hospital, according to his latest traditional Sunday prayer message.
Pope Francis, 88, expressed gratitude for the prayers of his worshippers, thanking those “who assist me with such dedication”.
The pontiff is being treated at the Gemelli Hospital in Rome.
Doctors say his condition is no longer critical – after he was admitted with bronchitis on 14 February and later diagnosed with double pneumonia and infection. However, they indicate that his age and lack of mobility remain factors in his recovery.
In his traditional Sunday Angelus prayer, he addressed the congregation as he faces a “period of trial,” aligning with “so many brothers and sisters who are sick; fragile, at this time, like me.”
“Our bodies are weak but, even like this, nothing can prevent us from loving, praying, giving ourselves, being for each other, in faith, shining signs of hope.”
A man prays outside the Gemelli hospital in Rome where the Pope is being treated. Pic: AP
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The pontiff praised his medical team, saying: “How much light shines in hospitals and places of care! How much loving care illuminates the rooms, corridors, clinics, where the humblest services are performed!”
The pope also offered prayers to “countries wounded by war… tormented Ukraine, Palestine, Israel, Lebanon, Myanmar, Sudan, and the Democratic Republic of the Congo”.
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Behind the scenes at the Vatican
The pope typically delivers this prayer, on the second Sunday of Lent, from a window overlooking St Peter’s Square at the Vatican.
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