Pope Francis’s recent public appearance marked a significant moment – a magical experience for the crowd gathered outside the Gemelli hospital and, undoubtedly, for the Pope himself, who cherishes interactions with the faithful.

Consider this: an 88-year-old man who recently battled a severe case of pneumonia in both lungs, leaving him in a critical condition just a few weeks ago.

Despite the Pope’s doctors warning that his life was in danger, he has made a remarkable recovery and has now been discharged from the hospital.

Seeing the diminutive pontiff on the balcony, alert and giving a thumbs up, yet occasionally appearing uncomfortable and struggling to breathe after just a few minutes in front of the crowd.

As he returned to the Vatican in his white Fiat Papal car, he relied on nasal cannulas to supply him with oxygen.

This marked a turning point, signaling that the papacy would never be the same going forward.

This marks a shift towards a less dynamic yet more reflective papacy. Despite his age and health challenges, the Pope’s mental acuity remains sharp, with doctors noting he retains “the mind of a 50-year-old”.

Hence, we anticipate a leader who will continue to guide spiritually, though perhaps less physically present, at least for the next couple of months.

Expect fewer travel abroad and more limited public engagements in the near future. Pope Francis’s recovery process is ongoing, but he has made it clear he intends to resume his duties at the Vatican as soon as possible.