Vatican City, March 23: Pope Francis made a highly anticipated return to the public eye on Sunday, appearing for the first time in over a month after a lengthy hospital stay. Standing on the balcony of the hospital, the Pope addressed a gathered crowd, offering his blessing and sharing a heartfelt message. His reappearance was met with cheers and joyful applause from the faithful who had been eagerly awaiting news of his recovery.
This marked a significant moment in the Pope’s recovery journey after his hospitalization on February 14 for treatment of double pneumonia. Following his discharge from the hospital on Sunday, Pope Francis made his way back to his residence at Casa Santa Marta, signaling an important step in his convalescence.
In an update shared on social media platform X, Catholic Arena posted a video of the Pope’s public appearance, noting, “Pope Francis has made his first public appearance in over a month. He blessed the crowd and spoke to them. He now returns to the Vatican.”
Sergio Alfieri, the head of the medical team overseeing Pope Francis’ care, confirmed that the pontiff was discharged from the Gemelli Hospital in stable condition. The Pope has been prescribed ongoing medication and will require at least two months of convalescence and rest.
The 86-year-old Pope’s hospitalization has been his longest stay at the hospital since his election 12 years ago. Although he had not been seen publicly for weeks, the Vatican kept the faithful updated with a few messages from Pope Francis, including an audio recording and a photo showing him praying in the hospital chapel.
Earlier this week, the Vatican confirmed that the Pope’s pneumonia was under control, and his condition was steadily improving. In addition to his physical recovery, Pope Francis continued to move forward with his work, approving a major three-year reform process for the Catholic Church. This reform process includes proposals for greater roles for women within the Church, such as ordaining them as deacons, and increasing the involvement of non-clergy members in governance and decision-making.
Pope Francis’ return to public life has provided hope and inspiration to millions of Catholics worldwide, as they witness his resilience and continued dedication to the mission of the Church.