Pope Francis, who has been hospitalized since February 14, addressed his followers for the first time in a recorded message shared by the Vatican.
Speaking with a frail and hoarse voice, the 88-year-old pontiff thanked believers for their prayers and reassured them of his spiritual presence.
A Message of Gratitude
"From the depths of my heart, I thank you for your prayers for my health from Saint Peter’s Square. I will accompany you from here," Pope Francis said in the audio, as reported by Digi24.
He concluded with a blessing: "May God bless you, and may the Virgin watch over you."
Despite his stable condition, Vatican officials confirmed that his doctors remain cautious about his recovery.
The pope continues to balance work, rest, and prayer while remaining under medical supervision at Rome’s Gemelli Hospital.
Limited Public Presence
Pope Francis has not made any public appearances since his hospitalization, the longest of his papacy.
Unlike previous hospital stays, where he addressed crowds from a hospital balcony, he has missed his last three Sunday Angelus prayers. Vatican officials have not yet confirmed whether he will make an appearance this weekend.
On Ash Wednesday, the pope followed the liturgical observances from his hospital room, marking the beginning of Lent.
Given his condition, Cardinal Michael Czerny has been designated to lead Mass in his place for the first Sunday of Lent.
The Vatican has assured that updates on the pope’s health will continue, though the next scheduled briefing has been delayed to Saturday, citing his stable condition.
As the leader of 1.4 billion Catholics worldwide, his health remains a point of deep concern, with many believers praying for his swift recovery.
