Pope Francis is set to be discharged from Rome’s Gemelli Hospital on Sunday, March 23, following a five-week battle with double pneumonia. The 88-year-old pontiff, who has been hospitalized since February 14, is expected to return to the Vatican for at least two months of rest.
The Vatican confirmed on Friday that Pope Francis’ condition had stabilized, with improvements in breathing and mobility. Cardinal Victor Fernandez, head of the Vatican’s doctrinal office, noted that while the pope no longer requires mechanical ventilation at night, he continues to receive oxygen therapy. Due to his prolonged use of high-flow oxygen, he may need to “relearn how to speak,” Fernandez added.
The pope has made only one public appearance since his hospitalization, with a Vatican-released photograph showing him praying in a hospital chapel. Earlier this month, an audio recording of him speaking in Spanish was played in St. Peter’s Square, where he expressed gratitude for the prayers of the Catholic faithful.
Despite speculation, Vatican officials have dismissed any suggestion that Pope Francis might resign, following the example of his predecessor, Benedict XVI.
Before departing the hospital on Sunday, the pope plans to greet well-wishers from the Gemelli Hospital balcony and deliver a blessing at noon. The Vatican has stated that the text of the Angelus prayer will be shared as it has been in previous weeks.
This appearance will mark Pope Francis’ first public greeting since his hospitalization, signaling his continued recovery and determination to resume his duties as head of the Roman Catholic Church.
