Pope Francis expressed his gratitude towards the hospital and healthcare workers at Rome’s Gemelli Hospital during his Angelus prayer on Sunday. The pontiff, who is currently receiving treatment for bronchitis, praised the doctors and healthcare workers for their valuable and tiring work.
In a written text of his Angelus prayer, Pope Francis also thanked the public for their affection, prayers, and closeness during his hospitalization. The Vatican announced that the pontiff would not lead the Angelus prayer as usual, as medical staff had prescribed him 'absolute rest' to aid his recovery from the respiratory tract infection.
A Vatican spokesperson reported that Pope Francis had a peaceful second night in the hospital, where he slept well, had breakfast, and read newspapers. The pontiff's hospitalization on Friday was for treatment of bronchitis and medical examinations, adding to a series of health concerns surrounding the 88-year-old leader.
Despite recent struggles with bronchitis, Pope Francis had held audiences at the Vatican on Friday morning before his hospitalization. He was mentally alert during the meetings but faced challenges in speaking for extended periods due to breathing difficulties.
Francis has a history of hospital visits, including abdominal surgery in 2023. His current hospitalization has prompted an outpouring of support and well-wishes from around the world as he continues his recovery under medical care.
