Pope Francis, now on his 10th day of hospitalization, expressed confidence in his ongoing treatment through a message released in place of his customary Sunday Angelus prayer.
“I am confidently continuing my hospitalization at the Gemelli Hospital, carrying on with the necessary treatment — and rest is also part of the therapy,” Pope Francis wrote.
The 88-year-old pontiff is receiving treatment at Rome’s Gemelli Hospital, where he was admitted on February 14 due to bronchitis that developed into double pneumonia.
In his statement, Pope Francis expressed gratitude to the medical staff attending to him and acknowledged the outpouring of support he has received.
He noted that rest is an essential component of his therapy and mentioned being particularly moved by messages and drawings from children around the world.
“In recent days, I have received many messages of affection, and I have been particularly struck by the letters and drawings from children,” the pope said.
“Thank you for this closeness, and for the prayers of comfort I have received from all over the world! I entrust you all to the intercession of Mary, and I ask you to pray for me,” he added.
The pope typically recites his Angelus prayer from the window of the Apostolic Palace at the Vatican, concluding by inviting the crowds in St. Peter’s Square to pray for him and enjoy their lunch.
Despite his hospitalization, the pope addressed global concerns, marking the third anniversary of Russia’s invasion of Ukraine. He described the occasion as a “painful and shameful” moment for humanity and extended his prayers for peace in conflict-stricken regions, including Palestine, Israel, the Middle East, Myanmar, Kivu, and Sudan.
Vatican sources have indicated that Pope Francis continues to receive oxygen support but remains alert. This marks the second consecutive Sunday he has been unable to deliver the Angelus prayer in person, with the Vatican opting to release written messages on his behalf.