The 88-year-old pontiff to leave hospital on Sunday after steady recovery; will resume duties with rest and medication over next two months.
Vatican City, March 23 – Pope Francis will be discharged from Rome’s Gemelli Hospital on Sunday, following more than a month-long stay for treatment of double pneumonia, confirmed Dr. Sergio Alfieri, head of the medical team overseeing his care.
“Today we are happy to say that tomorrow he will be at home,” Alfieri told reporters on Saturday, adding that the Pope is in stable condition, but will require two months of rest and partial drug therapy during recovery.
First Public Appearance Since Hospitalization
The 88-year-old pontiff, who has been absent from public view since February 14, is expected to appear on the hospital’s balcony on Sunday to greet well-wishers and offer his blessing after the Angelus prayer. This will mark his first public appearance since being admitted.
Though he usually leads the Angelus prayer each Sunday, this will be the sixth consecutive week he has not personally delivered it due to illness.
“The Holy Father will return to Casa Santa Marta,” said Vatican spokesman Matteo Bruni, referring to the Pope’s residence since his 2013 election.
Longest Hospital Stay Since 2013 Papacy Began
This hospitalization was Pope Francis’s longest since becoming pope 12 years ago. In recent weeks, the Vatican released only a brief audio message and a photo of him praying in the chapel, which reassured many of his condition.
Earlier this week, Vatican officials said the pneumonia was under control, fueling hope that the Pope would soon be discharged.
Papal Commitment to Reforms Remains Firm
Despite his fragile health, Pope Francis remains active in Church affairs. Last week, he gave the green light to a three-year global reform initiative, focusing on:
- Greater inclusion of women in Church leadership
- Possible ordination of women as deacons
- Empowering non-clergy members in Church governance
The move signals the Pope’s determination to continue leading despite recent health setbacks.