The Vatican has shared the first image of Pope Francis since he was hospitalized a month ago.
Released on Sunday, March 16, the photo shows the 88-year-old pontiff seated in a wheelchair before an altar at a chapel in Rome’s Gemelli Hospital, where he has been recovering from pneumonia.
Earlier that day, in his written Angelus message, Pope Francis reflected on his “period of trial,” expressing gratitude for the prayers of well-wishers and calling for peace in war-torn nations.
The Vatican recently reported that an X-ray confirmed “improvements” in his condition, though he continues to require hospital treatment. A statement on Saturday noted that the Pope still needs medical therapy, as well as motor and respiratory physiotherapy, but is making gradual progress.
Since his hospitalization on February 14, Pope Francis had not been seen in public, and no images had been released until Sunday.
“I join with so many brothers and sisters who are sick—fragile, like me at this time,” the Pope said in his latest statement. He also urged continued prayers for peace in conflict-stricken regions, including Ukraine, Palestine, Israel, Lebanon, Myanmar, Sudan, and the Democratic Republic of the Congo.
During his stay at Gemelli Hospital, Pope Francis has been treated for double pneumonia and other infections, with several respiratory crises raising concerns about his health.
As a young man, the Pope, born Jorge Mario Bergoglio, suffered from pleurisy and had part of a lung removed, making him especially vulnerable to pneumonia.
