Rome: Pope Francis made his first public appearance in over five weeks on March 23, 2025, greeting and blessing well-wishers from the window of his suite at Gemelli Hospital in Rome. The 88-year-old pontiff had been hospitalized since February 14 due to a severe respiratory infection, which later developed into double pneumonia.
Seated in a wheelchair, the Pope acknowledged the crowd gathered outside the hospital and expressed heartfelt gratitude for their prayers and support during his illness. Shortly after, he was discharged and returned to Casa Santa Marta in the Vatican, where he will continue his recovery, expected to last at least two months.
Despite his hospitalization, Pope Francis continued fulfilling essential papal duties, including approving canonizations. However, the Vatican has confirmed that he will maintain a reduced schedule during his convalescence, with a full return to duties depending on his health and medical advice.
The Pope’s health remains a concern due to his age and past lung conditions, underscoring the challenges he faces in his role as leader of the Catholic Church. The global Catholic community continues to pray for his swift and complete recovery.
