Pic: Vatican Releases First Photo of Pope Francis Since Hospitalisation

The Vatican has shared the first image of Pope Francis since he was admitted to Rome’s Gemelli Hospital over a month ago. Released on Sunday, March 16, the photograph shows the 88-year-old pontiff seated in a wheelchair in front of a chapel altar inside the hospital, where he has been undergoing treatment and recovery for pneumonia.

In a written Angelus message issued the same day, Pope Francis acknowledged the difficult period he is facing, describing it as a “period of trial.” He expressed gratitude for the prayers and support he has received and called for continued prayers for peace in conflict-stricken countries including Ukraine, Palestine, Israel, Lebanon, Myanmar, Sudan, and the Democratic Republic of the Congo.

The Pope has not been seen publicly since his hospital admission on February 14. Until Sunday, no official images had been released, sparking concerns over his condition. A Vatican statement issued Saturday confirmed that medical imaging showed signs of improvement, but that he remains in need of hospital-based care, including respiratory and motor physiotherapy.

Pope Francis has faced ongoing respiratory challenges during his hospital stay, including several crises that heightened concern over his health. His vulnerability to lung infections stems from a bout of pleurisy in his youth, which resulted in a partial lung removal. Despite these complications, Vatican officials report that his recovery continues to progress gradually.