Pope Francis conveyed a message of love and resilience on Sunday amidst his ongoing hospitalization in Rome. Sharing his thoughts via social media platform X, the pontiff expressed gratitude for the outpouring of support, particularly from children, and encouraged continued dedication to spreading love and transforming negativity into positive action.
The Pope's message echoed themes from his prepared homily for the Jubilee of Deacons, read on his behalf by Archbishop Rino Fisichella. The homily, subsequently released by the Vatican, emphasized embracing love, transforming evil into good, and fostering a fraternal world. It also included a personal note from the Pope, acknowledging his ongoing treatment and thanking the medical staff at Gemelli Hospital.
Pope Francis holds his homily during the weekly General Audience at the Paul VI Hall on Feb. 12, 2025, in Vatican City, Vatican. (Vatican Media via Vatican Pool/Getty Images)
In his message, Pope Francis also acknowledged the third anniversary of the war in Ukraine, calling it a "painful and shameful occasion." He urged prayers for victims of armed conflicts worldwide, specifically mentioning Palestine, Israel, the Middle East, Myanmar, Kivu, and Sudan.
Balloons are attached at the statue of John Paul II where people come to pray outside the Gemelli hospital where Pope Francis is hospitalized for pneumonia, in Rome on Feb. 23, 2025. (ALBERTO PIZZOLI/AFP via Getty Images)
The Vatican provided updates on the Pope's health, indicating he remained conscious and was receiving supplemental oxygen. Earlier reports revealed he had experienced a respiratory crisis and received blood transfusions due to low platelet counts. While his condition is considered critical due to a complex lung infection, he reportedly rested peacefully overnight.
Deacons take part in a mass for their jubilee in St. Peter's Basilica at The Vatican, Sunday, Feb. 23, 2025, that was supposed to be presided over by Pope Francis who was admitted over a week ago to Rome's Agostino Gemelli Polyclinic. (AP Photo/Alessandra Tarantino)
The Pope's hospitalization has prompted discussions about potential succession plans should his health deteriorate further. He was initially admitted for worsening bronchitis and later experienced a respiratory crisis while being treated for pneumonia and a lung infection.
