Pope Francis' voice was heard for the first time tonight since being hospitalised with pneumonia three weeks ago. In a recording played ahead of the nightly rosary prayer in St Peter's Square, a tradition held since his illness struck, he expressed gratitude for the outpouring of support.
Speaking in Spanish, the 88-year-old pontiff from Argentina said: "I thank you from the bottom of my heart for your prayers for my health from the Square. I accompany you from here. May God bless you and the Virgin protect you. Thank you."
The Holy Father's laborious breathing was evident as he spoke deliberately, with the message having been recorded earlier today. His clinical condition is described as 'stable,' with no recent respiratory failure incidents.
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Monday was marked by some concern when Francis experienced two breathing difficulties. Nonetheless, today’s blood tests showed stability without fever, according to the Vatican, reports the Mirror.
Given this stability, the Vatican medical team won't be providing another update until Saturday. This contrasts with the daily updates issued since his hospitalisation.
On Wednesday, Pope Francis remained seated all day, utilising a breathing mask at night, the Vatican stated. There were no fresh breathing crises, and oxygen was administered nasally while he stayed still.
The Vatican has disclosed that the Holy Father has intensified his respiratory physiotherapy and active motor therapy. Sources indicate he is capable of movement, albeit limited, noting "not an awful lot of movement going on" The prognosis for Pope Francis remains uncertain due to the complexity of his health issues, as stated by The Vatican.
Currently stable within his "complex" clinical situation, he continues his stay at Rome's Gemelli Hospital where he has been since February 14, battling double pneumonia.
A recent statement from yesterday detailed: "This morning, in the private apartment on the 10th floor, the Holy Father participated in the rite of blessing of the Holy Ashes which were imposed on him by the celebrant, then he received the Eucharist," according to The Vatican.
It was also mentioned that "He later devoted himself to some work activities. Also in the morning he called Fr. Gabriel Romanelli, parish priest of the Holy Family of Gaza." The statement added: "In the afternoon he alternated rest with work."
With Pope Francis, aged 88, hospitalised, the Vatican commenced Lent without him this past Wednesday. Cardinal Angelo De Donatis stepped in to lead the traditional celebration on the Aventine Hill, signifying the start of the 40-day period of fasting and reflection that Christians undertake before Easter.
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