Vatican City: The Vatican released the first image of Pope Francis since his hospitalization. The photo captures him in the Gemelli hospital chapel.
Francis is wearing a stole, a religious vestment worn when presiding over Mass.
This marks the first time since his hospitalization that he has concelebrated Mass.
Concelebration means he was among priests leading the service, not just attending or receiving the Eucharist.
Previously, he only participated in Mass without leading it.
Health Update
The Vatican reported that Francis continued treatments and therapies while working on Sunday.
The pope had no visitors that day as he remained in care.
Francis, 88, has been hospitalized in Rome battling pneumonia.
This is his longest hospital stay since becoming pope 12 years ago.
Despite health struggles, he continues his duties within the Catholic Church.
Public Support
Earlier Sunday, Pope Francis thanked supporters for their prayers.
In his pre-released Angelus prayer, he called this a “period of trial.”
Just after 5:30 a.m. ET, schoolchildren gathered outside the hospital to show support.
They waved yellow and white balloons, symbolizing the Holy See.
The children shouted, “Viva il papa,” expressing their love and encouragement.
Children’s Visit
The children also prayed the Angelus together in the hospital piazza.
Later, some entered the hospital, bringing flowers and balloons.
Francis expressed gratitude, acknowledging the children’s prayers and support.
He assured them of his love and desire to meet them.
The pope also thanked medical staff for their dedication.
Call for Peace
Pope Francis urged prayers for war-affected regions.
He mentioned Ukraine, Palestine, Israel, Lebanon, Myanmar, Sudan, and Congo.
His words reflected his continuous concern for global conflicts.
Despite his illness, he remains focused on humanitarian causes.
The Vatican confirmed his stable condition but ongoing medical needs.
Medical Progress
Francis still requires treatment but is improving gradually.
He has been using non-invasive mechanical ventilation at night.
His need for this support is slowly decreasing.
During the day, he continues high-flow oxygen therapy.
Doctors are monitoring his progress closely.
Church Leadership
Despite his health struggles, Francis remains committed to his role.
He recently approved a three-year reform process for the Catholic Church.
This decision shows his dedication to long-term change.
He has not indicated any plans to step down.
His leadership remains firm despite his health challenges.
