Pope Francis is continuing his recovery at his residence in Vatican City after a serious bout of pneumonia that required over a month of hospitalization. The Vatican announced Friday that his condition has “improved slightly,” though he remains under close medical supervision and has not resumed any public-facing duties.
As reported by Digi24, the Pope is engaged in daily physical and respiratory therapy and is said to be gradually regaining his strength and ability to speak. Since being discharged last Sunday from Rome’s Gemelli Hospital after 38 days, the pontiff has continued to receive oxygen support—less during the day but at a higher rate during the night.
Recovery in seclusion at Santa Marta
Francis, now 88, has not received visits from his closest aides this week and is residing quietly in the Domus Sanctae Marthae, where he celebrates a daily private Mass accompanied by one other person. The Vatican press office noted that the Pope remains in good spirits despite his limited interactions and activities.
While he is not expected to appear publicly for Sunday’s Angelus prayer, the message will be released in written form. The Holy See also confirmed that Pope Francis has been briefed on the devastating earthquake in Myanmar and Thailand and is praying for the victims.
Long road to recovery ahead
The Argentine pontiff is currently undergoing a two-month convalescence period following the life-threatening double pneumonia, which reportedly brought him close to death on two occasions. The Vatican has not indicated when he may return to public engagements, suggesting that his health remains fragile and his recovery ongoing.
Though the Pope has endured several health setbacks in recent years, this latest episode has notably restricted his ability to fulfill even private Vatican duties. Until further notice, Francis’ recovery continues quietly—out of the public eye but closely watched from around the world.
