“I have recently received many messages of affection, and I have been particularly struck by the letters and drawings from children,” Pope Francis posted on X (formerly Twitter) on Sunday. “Thank you for your closeness and for the consoling prayers I have received from all over the world!”
His message touched millions of faithful followers, many of whom have been closely following updates on his condition. The Pope’s hospitalization at Rome’s Gemelli Hospital has raised global concerns, but he reassured his supporters that he remains hopeful and appreciative of their prayers.
A Message of Hope and Love
In another post, Pope Francis urged believers to remain steadfast in their faith and to embody the teachings of the Gospel.
“I urge you to continue your apostolate with joy and to be a sign of a love that embraces everyone, as the #GospelOfTheDay suggests,” he wrote. “May we transform evil into goodness and build a fraternal world. Do not be afraid to take risks for love!”
His words resonated deeply, especially as they aligned with his homily for the Jubilee of Deacons. Since the Pope was unable to attend the event in person, Archbishop Rino Fisichella read the homily on his behalf during the Holy Mass at Saint Peter’s Basilica.
Pope’s Homily Highlights His Vision for the Church
The Vatican released a copy of the Pope’s pre-prepared speech, in which he greeted the newly ordained deacons and encouraged them to lead with compassion and unwavering faith.
“Brothers and sisters, happy Sunday! This morning, in Saint Peter’s Basilica, the celebration of the Eucharist with the Ordination of some candidates to the diaconate was celebrated. I greet them and the participants in the Jubilee of Deacons, which has taken place in the Vatican these days; and I thank the Dicasteries for the Clergy and for Evangelization for the preparation of this event.”
He urged the deacons to embrace their mission wholeheartedly. “Continue your apostolate with joy and – as today’s Gospel suggests – be a sign of a love that embraces everyone, that transforms evil into goodness and engenders a fraternal world. Do not be afraid to risk love!”
Pope Francis also addressed his health, acknowledging the necessity of rest and medical care. “On my part, I am confidently continuing my hospitalization at the Gemelli Hospital, carrying on with the necessary treatment; and rest is also part of the therapy! I sincerely thank the doctors and health workers of this hospital for the attention they are showing me and the dedication with which they carry out their service among the sick.”
Calls for Peace Amid Global Conflicts
The Pope used his platform to highlight the pressing global conflicts and called for unity and peace. He reminded the world that Monday marked the third anniversary of the devastating war in Ukraine, describing it as “a painful and shameful occasion for the whole of humanity!”
“As I reiterate my closeness to the suffering Ukrainian people, I invite you to remember the victims of all armed conflicts, and to pray for the gift of peace in Palestine, Israel, and throughout the Middle East, Myanmar, Kivu, and Sudan,” he added.
Pope’s Health Update: Critical But Stable
The Vatican confirmed that Pope Francis remains conscious but is still receiving high flows of supplemental oxygen due to respiratory complications. His condition remains critical, and doctors continue to monitor his complex lung infection closely.
On Saturday, medical experts revealed that the Pope had suffered a prolonged asthmatic respiratory crisis while battling pneumonia. Given his history—he had part of a lung removed as a young man—his condition has raised concerns about his ability to recover fully. Doctors administered blood transfusions to stabilize his platelet levels, which are crucial for clotting and overall healing.
The Holy See Press Office reported that “the night passed quietly, and the Pope rested,” but further clinical tests are being conducted. His medical team is expected to release a more detailed health update soon.
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Speculation Over Future Leadership
With Pope Francis’s fragile health, discussions have resurfaced about the possibility of his resignation. Though he has not indicated any intention to step down, his condition has sparked debates about succession planning within the Vatican. Some experts believe that if his health declines further, he may follow the precedent set by Pope Benedict XVI, who resigned in 2013 due to health reasons.
For now, Pope Francis remains steadfast in his mission, using his words to inspire hope, unity, and peace among his followers. Despite his hospitalization, he continues to lead the Catholic Church with unwavering faith and resilience.
Prayers Continue for Pope Francis
As millions around the world pray for his recovery, Pope Francis’s message serves as a reminder of the power of faith and compassion. Whether through his words of encouragement to deacons or his call for global peace, he continues to inspire people across different cultures and religions.
As we await further updates on his health, one thing remains clear—Pope Francis’s influence and commitment to love and unity will endure, no matter the challenges he faces.
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