By Catholic News Agency
March 6, 2025, 03:51 PM ET
VATICAN CITY – Pope Francis, who has been hospitalized at Rome’s Gemelli Hospital since February 14 due to bilateral pneumonia, expressed gratitude for the prayers and support of the faithful in a prerecorded audio message played during a rosary service in St. Peter’s Square on Thursday night.
“I thank you from the bottom of my heart for your prayers for my health from the square; I accompany you from here,” the Holy Father said in Spanish. “May God bless you and the Virgin protect you. Thank you.” His voice sounded hoarse and breathless in the brief message, which was recorded earlier that day, according to the Holy See Press Office (Catholic News Agency).
Pope Francis’ Condition Remains Stable
The Vatican confirmed Thursday evening that Pope Francis’ health remains stable, with no significant changes from previous days. He has not experienced further respiratory difficulties and continues undergoing respiratory and motor physiotherapy. His vital signs and blood test results remain stable, and he has not had a fever. However, doctors continue to monitor his condition closely (Vatican News).
Given the Pope’s stable condition, the Vatican announced that the next official medical update will be released on Saturday, March 8. Meanwhile, Pope Francis continues to balance work, rest, and prayer. On Wednesday, he participated in the Ash Wednesday blessing of ashes from his hospital room and received the Eucharist (Catholic News Agency).
Faithful Gather in Prayer for the Pope
As Pope Francis continues his recovery, the faithful worldwide have gathered in prayer. Nightly rosary vigils have been held in St. Peter’s Square, with thousands participating. On Thursday night, Cardinal Ángel Fernández Artime, pro-prefect of the Dicastery for Institutes of Consecrated Life and Societies of Apostolic Life, led the prayer service in St. Peter’s Square. Religious sisters and pilgrims also gathered outside Gemelli Hospital on Saturday, February 22, to pray for the Pope’s recovery (Vatican News).
Pope Francis’ hospitalization marks the longest medical stay of his pontificate. The Vatican has not yet provided an estimated date for his discharge. Meanwhile, the Pope remains engaged in his spiritual and pastoral duties, offering words of encouragement to those praying for him.
Sources: Catholic News Agency, Vatican News
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