Pope Francis Describes Hospitalisation as a ‘Period of Trial’

Pope Francis has described his ongoing hospitalisation as a “period of trial,” acknowledging his physical fragility while expressing gratitude to those who have been praying for him. The 88-year-old pontiff, who has been receiving treatment for pneumonia since February 14, shared a heartfelt message with the faithful on Sunday. In a statement released by the Vatican, the Pope reflected on his current condition, noting, “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.” He continued, “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.” For the fifth consecutive Sunday, Pope Francis was unable to personally deliver the traditional Angelus prayer to the crowd gathered in St. Peter’s Square. Instead, his message was shared remotely. Last week, the Vatican reas...