Pope Francis Returns to Vatican for Continued Recovery Following Hospitalization

Pope Francis was discharged from Rome’s Gemelli Hospital after five weeks of treatment for double pneumonia. On Sunday, he returned to the Vatican to continue his recovery at his residence, Casa Santa Marta. The Pope made a brief public appearance outside the hospital, waving and giving a thumbs-up, though he appeared frail. Despite his struggle to speak, he thanked the crowd and offered a blessing.

The 88-year-old Pope was first admitted in February due to a severe respiratory infection, which later developed into pneumonia. His doctors confirmed that his condition has stabilized, allowing him to go home to recover for the next two months. Before leaving, he visited the Santa Maria Maggiore basilica to place flowers before an icon of the Virgin Mary.

While in the hospital, Pope Francis could not lead the Angelus prayer but still shared messages with the public. In his latest message, he expressed sadness over the recent Israeli bombings in Gaza and called for peace talks to resume.

Doctors said that Pope Francis faced critical moments during his hospital stay, but his recovery at home will be crucial for his full healing.