Pope Francis was photographed today while co-celebrating the Holy Mass in the chapel of the Gemelli Polyclinic in Rome, where he has been hospitalized since February 14. In the image published by the Vatican, the pontiff is seen from behind wearing a purple stole, showing his face in profile.
In an official statement, the Vatican reported: "This morning, Pope Francis co-celebrated the Holy Mass in the chapel of the apartment on the tenth floor of the Gemelli Polyclinic." Despite being in a "moment of trial," the pope thanked the faithful for their prayers and messages of support during his recovery.
The supreme pontiff, 88 years old, has been struggling with bilateral pneumonia that took him to the hospital 31 days ago. Although his condition has been described as critical, he was seen participating in the mass in the chapel of the medical center, conveying a message of hope and faith: "Our physical body is weak, but even so, nothing can stop us from loving, praying, giving ourselves, being there for one another, in faith, bright signs of hope."
