The Vatican announced that Pope Francis experienced another restful night in the hospital and awoke shortly after 8 a.m. on Friday as he marked three weeks of hospitalization.
The 88-year-old pontiff is receiving treatment for bilateral pneumonia at Rome’s Gemelli Hospital, where he was admitted on February 14. On Thursday evening, Pope Francis shared an audio message to express gratitude for the outpouring of prayers, offering a heartfelt yet frail testament to his condition.
The message, recorded from his hospital room, played during the nightly Rosary recitation in St. Peter’s Square. Speaking in his native Spanish, the pope’s voice trembled with labored breathing as he said, “I thank you from the bottom of my heart for your prayers for my health from the square. I accompany you from here. May God bless you and the Virgin protect you. Thank you.”
Medical Condition Update
Doctors reported Thursday that Pope Francis remains in stable condition, without any new respiratory crises or fever. He is continuing respiratory and physical therapy while balancing work, rest, and prayer from the 10th floor papal suite at the hospital. Despite the stable status, doctors maintain a guarded prognosis as the pope is not yet out of danger.
To aid his recovery, the pope uses a non-invasive mechanical mask at night to help his lungs expand properly. During the day, he receives high-flow oxygen through a nasal tube.
The Vatican has provided twice-daily updates on his condition but has not released any photos or videos of the pope since his hospitalization. His health struggle marks the longest absence of his 12-year papacy, raising concerns about the future of his leadership.
Public Support and Prayers
The pope’s message touched the hearts of many. Cardinal Ángel Fernández Artime described the audio recording as a “beautiful gift” to the faithful. Cardinal Angelo De Donatis, who has been standing in for Pope Francis during Lenten services, expressed unity with him, saying, “We thank him for the offering of his prayer and his suffering for the good of the entire church in all the world.”
Support from around the globe poured in. Bishop James D. Conley of the Catholic Diocese of Lincoln, Nebraska, posted on X: “We are praying for you, Holy Father! May God grant you healing and peace! Know that my prayers and the prayers of so many are with you.”
Similarly, Catholic devotee Paula Rondon-Burgos wrote, “It is so beautiful to hear the Holy Father’s voice, God bless him.”
The Vatican continues to request prayers for Pope Francis’ recovery as the world watches and waits for further updates on the beloved pontiff’s health.
Keep up with Pope Francis’ recovery with us on Que Onda Magazine.