Pope Francis has admitted to feeling fragile and facing a period of trial as he continues treatment for pneumonia at the hospital. In a heartfelt message to the faithful on Sunday, the 88-year-old pontiff expressed gratitude for prayers and solidarity.
“I am sharing these thoughts with you while I am facing a period of trial, and I join with so many brothers and sisters who are sick: fragile, at this time, like me,” Pope Francis said in a message published by the Vatican.
“Our bodies are weak but, even like this, nothing can prevent us from loving, praying, giving ourselves, being for each other, in faith, shining signs of hope,” he added.
Sunday marked the fifth time the pope was unable to personally deliver the traditional Angelus prayer, which he usually recites before the crowd in St. Peter’s Square following mass.
The Vatican last week reassured the public that the pontiff was out of danger after experiencing breathing difficulties earlier in his hospitalization, which had raised concerns about his health.
A statement released on Saturday confirmed that his condition remained stable and continued to improve, although he still required medical treatment at the hospital.
“The Holy Father still requires hospital medical therapy, motor and respiratory physiotherapy; these therapies, at present, are showing further, gradual improvements,” the Vatican stated.
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