The Vatican has released the first image of Pope Francis since his hospitalization a month ago, offering a sign of hope regarding his recovery.
The photograph, made public on Sunday, March 16, captures the Pope seated in a wheelchair in front of an altar at the chapel in Rome’s Gemelli Hospital, where he has been receiving treatment for pneumonia.
This marks his first visual appearance since he was admitted on February 14.
In his written Angelus message earlier on Sunday, Pope Francis acknowledged his challenging period of illness.
He expressed gratitude to well-wishers for their prayers and extended his own prayers for global peace, particularly for “countries wounded by war.”
Meanwhile, the Vatican recently provided an update on the Pope’s health, noting steady improvements.
“The Holy Father still requires hospital medical therapy, motor and respiratory physiotherapy,” a statement released on Saturday confirmed. It further reassured the public by adding that his condition was “showing further, gradual improvements.”
Although Pope Francis, 88, has not been seen in public since his hospitalization, the newly released image has sparked optimism among the faithful.
His absence from public duties had raised concerns about his health, but this latest development suggests a positive trajectory in his recovery.
Moreover, medical reports indicate that an X-ray scan recently conducted showed signs of progress.
However, doctors have advised that he remains under hospital care to ensure full recovery.
The Pope’s health has been a subject of discussion in recent years, as he has faced several medical challenges.
Despite these, he has continued to lead the Catholic Church with resilience.
Furthermore, the release of his photograph may serve as an encouragement to millions of Catholics who have been following his health updates closely.
Many have expressed relief, believing that the worst phase of his illness is now behind him.
As Pope Francis continues to recover, there is hope that he will soon resume his official duties and return to the Vatican.
