Pope Francis is set to be discharged from a hospital in Rome on Sunday, following significant improvements in his health, according to his doctors. He will return to the Vatican to continue his recovery for at least two months.
On Sunday, the pope will make his first public appearance since his hospitalization on February 14. He is expected to address the public from the 10th-floor balcony of Rome’s Gemelli hospital, where he has been receiving treatment, and will impart a traditional Sunday blessing, as confirmed by Matteo Bruni, the Vatican spokesman.
This announcement marks a notable shift for the pope, who had been in critical condition for several weeks, raising concerns about the future of leadership within the Roman Catholic Church. His gradual recovery has brought a sense of relief to many, including Father Antonio Spadaro, a close associate, who noted the anticipation for Francis' presence amid ongoing global challenges.
While the pope has been able to govern the church from the hospital, his return to the Vatican will see him physically diminished, relying on oxygen and experiencing difficulties with his voice. The doctors indicated that although he has overcome severe pneumonia, he is not fully healed and must rest for an extended period.
Dr. Sergio Alfieri, the head of the medical team, reported that the pope had been stable for two weeks and was eager to return home. Despite improvements, Francis will require ongoing drug therapy and oxygen as part of his recovery process. The medical team has advised him to avoid large gatherings and potential sources of infection.
Dr. Luigi Carbone, the pope’s Vatican-based physician, explained that the pope may experience difficulty speaking due to the impact of his lung condition. He emphasized that the recovery of the pope's voice will take time.
Throughout his hospitalization, the global Catholic community has united in prayer for the pope’s recovery. Since February 25, nightly rosary prayers led by cardinals and bishops have drawn hundreds of faithful to St. Peter’s Square.
Pope Francis has faced various health challenges during his hospitalization, including respiratory crises and the need for mechanical ventilation. However, he has remained conscious and alert, responding positively to treatment without requiring intubation.
His Vatican residence is reportedly well-equipped to meet his medical needs, with emergency services on standby. Despite past struggles with bronchitis, the pope had maintained a rigorous schedule prior to his hospitalization, particularly in preparation for the upcoming 2025 Jubilee.