Pope Francis Set to Leave Hospital, Return to Vatican on Sunday

The 88-year-old Pope has been hospitalized at Rome’s Gemelli Hospital since February 14, after being admitted with breathing difficulties. Doctors later confirmed he was battling pneumonia in both lungs.

Pope Francis is set to be discharged from Rome’s Gemelli Hospital on Sunday and will return to his residence at the Vatican to begin a recovery period expected to last at least two months, according to one of his doctors.

The 88-year-old pontiff was admitted to the hospital on February 14 with breathing difficulties and was later diagnosed with pneumonia in both lungs. His hospitalization marks the longest of his papacy, prompting concern and speculation about his ability to lead the Church through the coming Easter season the most significant period on the Christian calendar.

Dr. Sergio Alfieri, who has overseen the Pope’s care, told reporters Saturday that “tomorrow, the pope will leave the hospital and return to Saint Martha’s House,” the Vatican guesthouse where Pope Francis resides. He added that the pontiff would need to observe “a long convalescence of at least two months.”

Another physician, Dr. Luca Carbone, noted that Francis’s condition “is improving,” and expressed hope that he would “soon be able to resume his normal activities.”

Alfieri remarked that continued recovery at the Vatican is preferable to a hospital stay, explaining, “A hospital even if this seems strange is the worst place to recover because it’s where one can contract more infections.”

Despite his fragile condition, Pope Francis is expected to make a brief public appearance from Gemelli Hospital on Sunday, offering a wave and blessing following the traditional Angelus prayers. He has now missed the Angelus for five consecutive weeks a first since his election to the papacy in 2013.

His prolonged absence from public religious observances has fueled speculation about a possible resignation, echoing the precedent set by his predecessor, Pope Benedict XVI. However, Vatican Secretary of State Pietro Parolin dismissed such concerns earlier this week. “No, no, no, absolutely not,” he responded when asked if the topic of resignation had been discussed during a recent visit with the Pope.

The Vatican reported Wednesday that Francis had stopped using an oxygen mask, a positive indicator in his recovery. Throughout his hospital stay including the critical stages the Vatican has released daily updates on his condition. Notably, Pope Francis has a history of lung complications, having had part of one lung removed as a young man.

Catholics and well-wishers around the world have been praying for the Pope’s recovery. Outside Gemelli Hospital, many have left flowers, candles, and handwritten notes in support of the pontiff, reflecting the deep affection he continues to inspire globally.

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Source: NDTV‍