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March 16, 2025 | 09:55 pm
TEMPO.CO, Jakarta - Pope Francis acknowledged on Sunday, March 16, 2025, that his body is in a weakened condition and he is 'facing a period of trial'. As reported by Channel NewsAsia, this was revealed as he expressed gratitude to those who prayed for him while he was hospitalized to receive treatment for pneumonia.
The 88-year-old pope, who has been hospitalized since February 14, sent a very personal message to the faithful published by the Vatican. This is because he missed delivering the traditional Angelus prayer in person.
"I am sharing these thoughts with you while I am facing a period of trial, and I join with so many brothers and sisters who are sick: fragile, at this time, like me," wrote the Pope.
"Our bodies are weak but, even like this, nothing can prevent us from loving, praying, giving ourselves, being for each other, in faith, shining signs of hope," he added.
This Sunday marks the fifth time the pope's condition has prevented him from personally delivering the Angelus prayer, which he usually delivers to the crowd gathered in St. Peter's Square after mass.
Last week, the Vatican indicated that the Argentine pope had come out of danger after a series of previous respiratory crises during his hospitalization had sparked fears for his life.
On Saturday, the Vatican said Pope Francis' condition continues to be stable and showing progress, as has been the case over the past week. However, the Vatican warned that he still needs therapy to be provided in the hospital.
"The Holy Father still requires hospital medical therapy, motor and respiratory physiotherapy; these therapies, at present, are showing further, gradual improvements," it said.
The message seems to dispel speculation that the pope's progress could indicate that he will soon be discharged from the hospital.
In his Sunday message - which also calls for peace in war-torn countries - Pope Francis once again expressed his gratitude to the medical team and those who have prayed for him.
"How much light shines, in this sense, in hospitals and places of care! How much loving care illuminates the rooms, the corridors, the clinics, the places where the humblest services are performed!" he said.
Pope Francis is being treated on the 10th floor of the hospital, home to a special papal suite including a chapel.
At the hospital entrance on Sunday morning, dozens of children from Catholic scout groups shouted 'Pope Francis, Pope Francis' as they held yellow and white balloons.
"I know that many children are praying for me; some of them came here today to 'Gemelli' as a sign of closeness," wrote the Pope in his message.
"Thank you, dearest children! The Pope loves you and is always waiting to meet you."
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