Pope Francis released an audio message on Thursday, expressing gratitude for prayers as he nears three weeks in the hospital battling pneumonia.
“I thank you from the bottom of my heart for your prayers for my health… May God bless you and the Virgin protect you,” he said in Spanish, his voice weak and breathless.
This was the first time the public has heard the 88-year-old pontiff since his admission to Rome’s Gemelli Hospital on February 14. Pilgrims in St. Peter’s Square applauded upon hearing his message.
The Vatican reported that Francis remains in stable condition, showing no signs of respiratory failure since Monday. He continues breathing exercises and physiotherapy while using an oxygen mask at night and a nasal cannula during the day.
Though absent from Ash Wednesday celebrations, Francis participated in a private blessing. The Vatican confirmed Cardinal Michael Czerny will lead Sunday’s Mass in his place.
Pilgrims will gather outside the hospital to pray for the pope, whose prolonged illness has reignited discussions about his future in the papacy.
