International-News

Pope Francis sends an audio of thanks from Gemelli – Audio Message

The Pontiff, hospitalised for bilateral pneumonia, thanks in an audio in Spanish for the affection and prayers. His condition remains stable

Pope Francis, currently hospitalised at the Gemelli Hospital since 14 February for bilateral pneumonia, wished to thank for the affection and prayers received during this difficult period. The Pontiff recorded a short audio message in Spanish, which was broadcast this evening at the beginning of the prayer of the Holy Rosary in St. Peter’s Square. ‘I sincerely thank you for your prayers for my health from the Square, I accompany you from here. May God bless you and may the Virgin protect you. Thank you,’ said the Pope, touched by the affection of God’s people.

The Holy Father’s health condition is stable, according to the latest medical bulletin. ‘Even today he has not presented any episodes of respiratory insufficiency,’ reads the report. The Pope is continuing with respiratory and motor physiotherapy, and his haemodynamic parameters and blood tests are stable. He has had no fever.

For tomorrow, the Vatican announced that no medical bulletin will be issued due to the stable clinical situation. ‘The next bulletin will be issued on Saturday,’ the Vatican Press Office explained, adding that they will still provide updates if necessary.

Francis is able to feed himself with solid food, without the need for food assistance, and alternates moments of work and rest, spending a lot of time in an armchair. This morning he received the Eucharist, maintaining his spiritual devotion even while in hospital.

The Pope continues to receive numerous messages of closeness and prayer from the world community, which supports him at this difficult time.