Pope Francis's health has weakened in recent years due to surgeries on his colon and abdomen, as well as difficulties walking. His prolonged hospitalization has reopened the debate about his ability to lead the Church at a crucial time in the "Holy Year," which has gathered thousands of pilgrims in Rome.
So far, the Vatican has not indicated a possible resignation, and Francis remains in charge of the Church, although he has not made public appearances since entering the hospital. Doctors have not yet provided details on how much longer he will remain hospitalized or about his recovery process.
In a written message sent during the Sunday Angelus, the pope thanked the medical staff for their care and dedication during his hospitalization: "Brothers and sisters, during my prolonged hospitalization, I also experience the attentiveness in service and the tenderness in care, especially from the doctors and healthcare workers, to whom I thank from the heart."
This is Francis's fourth hospitalization since 2021 and the longest of his 12-year pontificate. The Vatican reported that the pope had "a peaceful night" and continues his recovery at the Gemelli Hospital in Rome, where he has been hospitalized since February 14 for bilateral pneumonia.
At 88 years old, the pontiff has shown slight signs of improvement in recent days and seems to be responding well to treatment.
