VATICAN CITY, Rome — Pope Francis has released a heartfelt audio message thanking those who have been praying for his recovery, as he remains hospitalised for a third week with pneumonia.
In a message broadcast in St Peter’s Square on Thursday, March 6, 2025, the 88-year-old pontiff, speaking in his native Spanish, took laboured breaths as he expressed gratitude.
“I thank you from the bottom of my heart for your prayers for my health from the Square, I accompany you from here. May God bless you and the Virgin protect you. Thank you,” Francis said, his voice fading at points.
It was the first time the public had heard the pope’s voice since he was admitted to Rome’s Gemelli Hospital on February 14.
The Vatican said he remains “stable”, though doctors have not provided a prognosis on his recovery.
Pope’s Health Condition Remains Delicate
Francis, who had part of a lung removed as a young man, has been experiencing respiratory difficulties in recent weeks.
The Vatican confirmed that he suffered two episodes of acute respiratory failure on Monday, requiring urgent medical intervention.
For the past three nights, the pope has used an oxygen mask to aid his breathing while sleeping.
On Thursday, he switched to a nasal cannula, a less invasive device that delivers high-flow oxygen, according to a Vatican source.
While there has been no repeat of Monday’s respiratory crisis, the pope remains under close medical supervision.
Twice-daily health updates have been provided since his hospitalisation, though the Vatican announced that the next update will not be until Saturday, citing the stability of his condition.
Missed Public Appearances and Uncertain Sunday Plans
The pope’s health issues have significantly affected his public engagements.
He missed the Ash Wednesday celebrations marking the start of Lent and has not led his weekly Sunday Angelus prayer from the hospital, a tradition he previously upheld during past hospital stays.
The Vatican has not confirmed whether Francis will make an appearance this Sunday, marking his fourth consecutive absence.
In his place, Cardinal Michael Czerny will lead the Mass for the first Sunday of Lent, part of preparations for Jubilee 2025, a Holy Year dedicated this weekend to volunteers.
Meanwhile, pilgrims have continued to gather in St Peter’s Square and outside the hospital to pray for his recovery, applauding upon hearing his recorded message on Thursday.
Global Concerns Over Pope’s Health
Francis’s prolonged hospital stay has sparked renewed speculation about his ability to continue leading the Catholic Church.
His health has been a subject of concern in recent years, fueling discussions about whether he might follow the precedent of Pope Benedict XVI, who resigned in 2013 due to declining health.
The Vatican has dismissed such speculation, maintaining that the pope remains actively involved in governance, despite his medical challenges.
For now, the Catholic world remains focused on his recovery, with prayers and vigils continuing in Rome and beyond.
