March 17, 2025: The Vatican has released the first official image of Pope Francis since his hospitalisation, offering a rare glimpse into his recovery. The 88-year-old pontiff, who has been battling double pneumonia, is seen attending Mass in a private chapel inside his hospital suite at Rome’s Gemelli hospital.

The photograph, made public on Sunday, shows Pope Francis seated in a wheelchair, wearing a purple stole, a traditional vestment used during Lenten services. The Pope is facing the altar, and no other individuals are visible in the image, giving it a deeply personal and intimate tone.

This is the first visual confirmation of the Pope's participation in a religious service since he was admitted to the hospital on February 14 due to a flare-up of chronic bronchitis that later worsened into double pneumonia. The image appears to show no visible signs of supplemental oxygen use, an encouraging sign of his gradual recovery.

Doctors Provide Update on Pope’s Health

Despite being out of immediate danger, medical experts emphasize that Pope Francis’ condition remains complex, considering his age, mobility challenges, and the partial loss of a lung due to a previous infection in his youth.

Doctors confirmed this week that the Pope is no longer in critical condition, but he is still being closely monitored. His daily updates from the Vatican have now been reduced, indicating an improving situation.

An X-ray examination earlier this week showed that the infection in his lungs is clearing, and medical teams are working to reduce his dependence on a non-invasive ventilation mask at night. While the Pope continues to receive high-flow oxygen therapy during the day, he was not seen using any breathing apparatus in the released photo, suggesting a positive development in his recovery.

In an audio recording released on March 6, the Pope's voice sounded frail and labored, but he took the opportunity to thank the faithful gathered in St. Peter’s Square for their prayers and support.

Pope’s Message of Solidarity Amid Recovery

Despite his ongoing health battle, Pope Francis continues to engage with global humanitarian crises. Last week, he sent a heartfelt telegram to flood victims in Argentina, expressing his prayers and condolences for those affected in Bahia Blanca and Cerri.

"I offer fervent prayers for the eternal rest of the deceased. I wish to express my spiritual closeness to the entire population, beseeching the Lord to grant comfort to the bereaved and to all those who are suffering in these moments of pain and uncertainty," Pope Francis wrote.

He also commended rescue teams and volunteers for their efforts in searching for missing persons and assisting in the rebuilding process in the disaster-stricken areas.

Looking Ahead: When Will Pope Francis Resume Duties?

Although no official date has been provided for Pope Francis' discharge from the hospital, Vatican sources indicate that he is on the path to recovery. However, given his age and medical history, his return to full papal duties will likely be gradual and carefully managed.

The Vatican has confirmed that all major papal engagements will continue to be evaluated based on his health condition, and substitutes may be appointed for upcoming public events.

For now, the Pope’s participation in Mass at the hospital chapel marks a hopeful sign of his steady improvement, bringing relief and encouragement to Catholics worldwide.

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