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Pope Francis thanks well-wishers in heartfelt audio message
Pope Francis, still recovering in hospital, expressed his gratitude for the worldwide prayers supporting his recovery in a brief audio message, his first public communication since being hospitalized three weeks ago.
Recorded from Rome's Gemelli Hospital, the two-line message was shared with those gathered in St. Peter’s Square for the nightly rosary prayer. "I thank you from the bottom of my heart for your prayers for my health, and I accompany you from here," the Pope said softly in Spanish, his breath labored. "May God bless you, and the Virgin protect you. Thank you."
The message was met with applause by the hundreds of pilgrims who had gathered each evening since his hospitalization on February 14. The Vatican later reported that the Pope had a "calm night" of rest, waking up just before 8 AM.
Initially diagnosed with bronchitis, the Pope's condition worsened into pneumonia in both lungs, requiring evolving treatment. Despite concerns about the severity of double pneumonia, Francis remains in stable condition, with doctors maintaining a reserved prognosis. His absence from the public since hospitalization marks the longest such break during his papacy.
The Pope missed the Ash Wednesday celebrations but participated in a private blessing. The Vatican confirmed that Cardinal Michael Czerny would lead the mass for the first Sunday of Lent in his place.
Pope Francis, who has had prior health issues, including pleurisy, remains under close medical observation. Speculation surrounding his health, particularly among critics, has raised questions about his potential resignation, similar to his predecessor Benedict XVI.