Pope Francis has personally expressed gratitude to the medical team that cared for him during his recent five-week hospitalization for double pneumonia, marking a significant moment in his slow but steady return to public life.
Speaking in a soft voice without the aid of oxygen, the 88-year-old pontiff met with around 70 staff members from Rome’s Gemelli Hospital at the Vatican on Wednesday. The Pope was visibly frail but in good spirits as he greeted those who helped him through his most serious health scare in over a decade.
“Thank you for your service in hospital,” Pope Francis told them. “It is very good. Keep going like this.”
While he has made a few brief public appearances in recent days, Vatican officials say the Pope is still in recovery and was advised by doctors to rest for at least two months following his discharge.
His participation in the upcoming Holy Week activities remains uncertain. The Vatican, which begins a packed schedule of at least six major liturgical events starting Thursday, has already appointed senior cardinals to preside over the celebrations, including Easter Sunday.
Despite his condition, the Pope’s return to public view is seen as a hopeful sign of progress, with Vatican watchers noting his continued determination to connect with the faithful.
