Pope Francis has urged Catholics worldwide to keep him in their prayers as he continues receiving treatment for double pneumonia at Rome’s Gemelli Hospital.
For the second consecutive Sunday, the 88-year-old pontiff was unable to lead the traditional Angelus prayer in person. Instead, he shared a heartfelt message expressing gratitude and faith, stating he was “confidently continuing” his hospital stay while undergoing necessary treatment.
His message, released by the Vatican on Sunday, follows reports that his condition remains “critical.” The Pope thanked the doctors and medical staff caring for him and was especially touched by the outpouring of support.
“In recent days, I have received many messages of affection, and I have been particularly moved by letters and drawings from children,” he wrote. “Thank you for this closeness and for the prayers of comfort from around the world! I entrust you all to the intercession of Mary, and I ask you to pray for me.”
Outside the hospital, well-wishers have continued to gather, lighting candles and offering prayers near a statue of the late Pope John Paul II.
Pope Francis was first admitted on February 14 after experiencing breathing difficulties. His history of lung complications dates back to his youth, when he had part of one lung removed due to pleurisy. Over the years, he has been hospitalized multiple times, including a three-night stay in 2023 for bronchitis.
The Vatican has been providing daily updates on his health, though the varying tone of the reports has left many observers speculating about his true condition.
On Saturday, the Vatican stated that while the Pope was alert and spent the day in an armchair, he remained in a fragile state. He required blood transfusions due to low platelet levels, as well as a high flow of oxygen.
Doctors have confirmed that while he is responding to treatment, his condition remains delicate. “He is the Pope,” one doctor said. “But he is also a man.”
Despite his health struggles, Pope Francis used his message to call for prayers for global peace, marking the third anniversary of the war in Ukraine. He urged people to remember victims of war and to pray for peace in Palestine, Israel, Myanmar, Kivu, and Sudan.
The Angelus prayer, traditionally delivered from the Vatican’s Apostolic Palace, is a cherished ritual for Catholics worldwide. While the Pope could not lead it in person, his message resonated deeply, reminding millions of his unwavering spirit in the face of adversity.
