Pope Francis Returns to Vatican After Hospital Discharge
Pope Francis has made a public appearance and returned to the Vatican after being discharged from hospital following a recent health concern. In his first appearance in several weeks, the Pontiff, using a wheelchair and appearing frail, greeted onlookers with a thumbs up and a smile.
Public Appearance at Gemelli Hospital
The 88-year-old Pope acknowledged a crowd gathered outside Rome’s Gemelli hospital from a balcony overlooking the entrance on a bright Sunday morning. He addressed a woman in the crowd, remarking, “I see this woman with the yellow flowers. Brava!”. The assembled people, including patients who had been brought outside, responded with cheers of “Viva il papa!” and “Papa Francesco”.
Return to Vatican for Rest and Recovery
This public blessing preceded his scheduled departure from the hospital and return to his Vatican residence for a two-month period of rest and convalescence.
Medical Briefing on Pope’s Health
Doctors announced Pope Francis’s discharge at a Saturday evening press conference. They stated that while he should avoid large gatherings and overexertion, he is expected to gradually resume his regular activities.
His return to the Vatican marks the end of his longest hospitalization during his 12-year papacy, and the second-longest in modern papal history. This development has brought significant relief to the Vatican and to Catholic followers who have been closely monitoring his 38-day medical journey.
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Dr. Rossella Russomando, a physician from Salerno present at Gemelli on Sunday, expressed her joy, stating, “Today I feel a great joy. It is the demonstration that all our prayers, all the rosary prayers from all over the world, brought this grace.”
Pilgrims Gather at Vatican
At the Vatican, pilgrims continued to flock to St. Peter’s Basilica, maintaining the tradition of the 2025 Holy Year.
Large numbers of people congregated in St. Peter’s Square, proceeding through the Holy Door in groups. Large screens in the square broadcast the Pope’s hospital greeting live.
Medical Care at Domus Santa Marta
No special arrangements have been implemented at the Domus Santa Marta, the Vatican hotel adjacent to St. Peter’s Basilica where Pope Francis resides.
Pope Francis will have access to supplemental oxygen and 24-hour medical care as necessary. His personal physician, Dr. Luigi Carbone, anticipates that the Pope will progressively require less breathing assistance as his lungs recover.