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Pope Francis made his first public appearance in over five weeks on Sunday, stepping out onto a balcony at Rome’s Gemelli Hospital, to greet a crowd of well-wishers gathered outside. The 88-year-old pontiff, who was hospitalised on February 14 due to a severe respiratory infection, was seen using a wheelchair as he smiled and waved at the crowd. His appearance was brief, and though his face appeared swollen, the pope spoke faintly to thank a member of the crowd who had brought yellow flowers for him.
The pope's doctors had previously indicated that it would take a significant amount of time for his aging body to fully recover. They recommended a further two months of rest at the Vatican, emphasizing the need for the pontiff to refrain from strenuous activities as his health improves.A history of fragile healthThe pontiff’s recovery has been a matter of close monitoring, as he had been admitted to the hospital with a worsening case of bronchitis, which later developed into double pneumonia.
Despite his hospital stay, Pope Francis continued to engage in some aspects of his papal duties. In February, he approved the appointment of new bishops and sanctioned a new fundraising initiative for the Holy See, which has faced financial difficulties in recent years. Although these decisions were likely finalised before his hospitalisation, their announcement reaffirmed that Pope Francis remains an active participant in Vatican governance, according to multiple news reports.
Supporters throng hospital premises As Pope Francis rested in the hospital, a steady stream of pilgrims gathered outside the Gemelli Hospital to pray for his recovery. Candles, balloons, and handwritten notes were left at the site, which had become a makeshift pilgrimage spot. A special Mass in the pope's honour was celebrated at the Argentine Church in Rome, and prayers continued throughout the city and beyond for his swift recovery.
In a show of solidarity, a group of pilgrims led by Bishop Gerardo Villalonga of Menorca, Spain, visited the hospital, citing the importance of offering spiritual support during times of illness. The scene outside the hospital was further marked by performances, including a rendition of Schubert’s Ave Maria, which was described as a prayerful gesture for the pope’s healing. Vatican holds prayer vigil for the Pope During Pope Francis’ hospitalisation, the Vatican also held a prayer vigil in St.
Peter’s Square, led by Cardinal Giovanni Battista Re, the dean of the College of Cardinals. Cardinal Re, who continues to serve in various crucial Vatican roles, reflected the continued commitment to pray for the pope’s health and wellbeing. These prayers were echoed by faithful from all around the world, demonstrating the global concern and support for the pontiff.
In his homeland of Argentina, the faithful gathered to offer their prayers for Pope Francis. A special Mass was celebrated by Cardinal Baldassarre Reina, the Pope’s vicar for Rome, at the Argentine Church in Rome..
