Pope Francis Resurfaces After Hospital Stay, Speaks on Israeli Attacks

Pope Francis Resurfaces After Hospital Stay, Speaks on Israeli Attacks

Pope Francis made a much-anticipated public appearance on Sunday, following a hospitalization that lasted over five weeks. Doctors reported that he successfully recovered from severe pneumonia, which posed significant risks to his health.

The 88-year-old pontiff addressed a gathering from Rome’s Gemelli Hospital, where he had received treatment. His message was conveyed through a statement read by the Vatican broadcaster in English. In his remarks, Pope Francis expressed deep sorrow over the intense Israeli bombings in Gaza.

Papal Blessing to a Welcoming Crowd

A large crowd gathered at the main entry piazza of the Gemelli Hospital, with many patients wheeled outside to witness the event. The pope waved to the audience and offered a brief speech, despite doctors noting that his voice has weakened due to his illness. He also made the sign of the cross to bless the onlookers. Following this appearance, the Holy Father was discharged from the hospital, embarking on a two-month period dedicated to rest, rehabilitation, and recovery at the Vatican.

The pontiff’s release came after a challenging 38 days of fluctuating health, during which discussions included concerns about a potential papal resignation or even funeral. Doctors announced his planned discharge during a Saturday evening news conference, outlining that he should avoid large gatherings and exertion but anticipated a full return to routine activities.

A Historic Hospitalization

This hospitalization marks the longest in Pope Francis’ 12-year papacy, and it ranks among the second-longest in the history of modern popes. At the Vatican, pilgrims flocked to St. Peter’s Basilica on the third Sunday of the Lenten season, as excitement builds for the upcoming Easter celebrations. Many gathered in St. Peter’s Square, participating in a ceremonial passage through the Holy Door while large screens broadcast live coverage of the pope’s message from the hospital.

Post-Discharge Care and Recovery

No special arrangements were reported at the Domus Santa Marta, the Vatican’s hotel where the pope resides. Francis is expected to have access to supplemental oxygen and 24-hour medical care as necessary. His personal physician, Dr. Luigi Carbone, expressed hope for a gradual reduction in breathing assistance as the pontiff’s lungs recuperate.

Though the pneumonia infection was successfully managed, Pope Francis will continue to take oral medication targeting a lingering fungal infection in his lungs. Furthermore, he will engage in respiratory and physical physiotherapy to aid in his recovery.

Dr. Carbone shared insights on the pope’s state of mind, noting that Francis had been inquiring about returning home for several days. His excitement at returning to the Vatican is evident.

Medical Challenges and Resilience

Dr. Sergio Alfieri, head of the medical and surgical team at Gemelli, highlighted the severe nature of the pope’s double pneumonia diagnosis. He noted that not all patients with similar conditions survive, particularly since the pontiff faced serious health risks during two acute respiratory crises. During those times, Francis lost his characteristic humor, demonstrating the reality of his situation.

However, recovery signs appeared when he jokingly responded during a lung examination, indicating that his spirit remained intact. Alfieri confirmed that Francis was never intubated nor did he lose consciousness during his treatment.

Projected Future and Key Events

Despite ongoing vocal challenges resulting from lung damage, Alfieri reassured that such difficulties are typical for elderly patients and predicted that the pope’s voice would return to normal over time. The Vatican spokesman, Matteo Bruni, refrained from commenting on any upcoming events, including a scheduled audience with King Charles III on April 8 or participation in the Easter services. However, Dr. Carbone expressed optimism for the pope’s ability to travel to Turkey toward the end of May for an important ecumenical anniversary.

Navigating a Holy Year

As Pope Francis returns to the Vatican, he enters the Holy Year, a significant celebration intended to attract over 30 million pilgrims to Rome this year. Despite missing several Jubilee audiences due to his health issues, Vatican officials reported that the expected influx of pilgrims has not been significantly impacted by his absence.

Historically, only St. John Paul II experienced a longer hospitalization, spending 55 days at Gemelli in 1981 for minor surgery and treatment for an infection. As Pope Francis embarks on his recovery journey, many worldwide will be closely monitoring his health and participation in upcoming events.

This report incorporates contributions from the Associated Press.