Pope Francis Urges Prayers for Recovery During Hospitalization

In a heartfelt message from Gemelli Hospital, Pope Francis expresses gratitude for prayers and well-wishes while emphasizing the necessity of ongoing medical care, amid concerns for his critical health condition.

Pope Francis has reached out to Catholics around the world, asking for their prayers as he remains hospitalized, being treated for double pneumonia. The pontiff missed delivering his customary Angelus prayer for the second consecutive Sunday, prompting this emotional appeal.

In a recent message penned from Rome's Gemelli Hospital, where he is undergoing treatment, the 88-year-old expressed that he is "confidently continuing" his hospitalization and receiving necessary medical attention. The Vatican had disclosed earlier that his condition remains "critical."

Expressing gratitude to healthcare workers and supporters, he thanked those who have sent well-wishes, particularly resonating with the letters and drawings from children. "Thank you for this closeness, and for the prayers of comfort I have received from all over the world! I entrust you all to the intercession of Mary, and I ask you to pray for me," he shared.

Pope Francis was admitted to the hospital on February 14 after encountering breathing difficulties. His vulnerability to lung infections stems from a history of pleurisy and a partial lung removal at age 21. Throughout his papacy, he has faced several health challenges, including a hospital stay in March 2023 for bronchitis.

This week, the Vatican has been providing daily updates regarding his health, indicating that while the Pope was alert and had spent time in an armchair, he was "not out of danger." Reports included the need for blood transfusions due to low platelet counts and requiring a high flow of oxygen.

Acknowledging his complex health circumstances, a medical professional noted, "He is the Pope, but he is also a man." Additionally, the Pope used the platform to reflect on the urgency of peace, observing the third anniversary of the war in Ukraine and calling for prayers for victims of global conflict, encouraging prayers for peace in Palestine, Israel, Myanmar, Kivu, and Sudan.

Typically, the Angelus prayer is a public address delivered by the Pope from a window of the Apostolic Palace, accompanied by a brief message.