Pope Francis Shares Gratitude for Medical Care as He Recovers from Pneumonia

The Vatican announced on Sunday that Pope Francis spent a peaceful night at the hospital as he continues treatment for pneumonia, marking his 24th day of hospitalization.

Despite his recovery, he cannot lead the Sunday Angelus prayer in St. Peter’s Square for the fourth consecutive week.

A Vatican spokesperson confirmed that the Pope is resting well and gradually recuperating.

In a written statement, Pope Francis expressed his heartfelt gratitude for the “thoughtfulness of service and the tenderness of care, in particular from the doctors and health care workers, whom I thank from the bottom of my heart.”

He stressed the importance of “the ‘miracle of tenderness’ which accompanies those who are in adversity, bringing a little light into the night of pain,” offering words of encouragement for those facing adversity. The Pope also conveyed his appreciation to all who have kept him in their prayers.

Pope Francis, 88, was admitted to Gemelli Hospital on February 14 due to respiratory issues, marking his longest hospitalization since becoming pontiff. This marks his fourth stay at Gemelli Hospital, following colon surgery in 2021, treatment for severe pneumonia in March 2023, and abdominal hernia surgery in June 2023. He was also briefly hospitalized last February for mild cold symptoms.

While his pneumonia diagnosis has posed ongoing respiratory challenges, medical professionals report that he is responding positively to treatment and has shown gradual improvement.