After a long hospital stay for double pneumonia, Pope Francis is set to leave the Gemelli Hospital and return to the Vatican on March 23, 2025. The 88-year-old pontiff has faced significant health challenges over the past month, including two serious respiratory crises that threatened his life.
According to Dr. Sergio Alfieri, who coordinated the Pope's medical care, the pontiff will undergo a convalescence period of at least two months at his residence, Santa Marta. While his recovery has been steady, Dr. Alfieri stressed the importance of adequate rest during this time.
"Tomorrow the pope will exit the hospital and return to the Sainte-Marthe residence, where he will continue his recovery," Dr. Alfieri announced during a press conference on March 22. The Pope is expected to greet the faithful and offer a blessing at the end of the Angelus prayer after his hospital discharge, marking his first public appearance since February.
Indeed, the Pope's last public event was on February 1, 2025, a gap of nearly eight weeks without a public appearance. This prolonged absence has fueled widespread concern regarding his health and ability to resume official duties.
Dr. Alfieri explained that the hospital environment is not conducive to recovery, stating, "The hospital, even if it may seem strange, is the worst place to convalesce: it’s where one contracts the most infections." This significant point underscores the medical team’s prognosis that returning home is essential for the Pope's continued improvement.
Along with Dr. Alfieri, another member of the medical team, Dr. Luigi Carbone, remarked on the Pope’s gradual recovery and expressed hope that he would soon be able to resume his normal activities. However, he emphasized that specific responsibilities may remain suspended until the Pope has adequately recuperated.
"During the convalescence period, it is clear that he will not be able to have his usual daily appointments," Dr. Alfieri remarked. This statement bears considerable weight given the Pope's historically rigorous schedule filled with appointments and religious ceremonies.
Pope Francis has not presided over the Angelus since February 9, marking a departure from his customary routine since his election in March 2013. The Vatican press office announced that the Pope would deliver the weekly prayer from the hospital on Saturday, concluding a period of absence for an event typically celebrated before crowds in St. Peter’s Square.
On March 16, the Vatican shared a photo of Pope Francis in a wheelchair within the hospital chapel, which stoked public concern. His solitary image depicted him appearing reflective and vulnerable, with many speculating about his capacity to continue leading the Catholic Church.
Despite previous health issues, the Pope managed to sustain an active public service. This hospital visit, however, has raised questions about the leadership leading up to the upcoming Easter celebrations on April 20, 2025. No definitive decisions have been made regarding future appearances, including a scheduled audience with King Charles III on April 8.
While his schedule remains uncertain, Dr. Carbone expressed optimism that the Pope might be well enough to attend the Turkish ecumenical anniversary scheduled for late May. Meanwhile, at home, the Pope will have no shortage of medical support, including supplemental oxygen and 24-hour care as needed.
The significant health challenges faced by Pope Francis during his hospital stay, including the two life-threatening crises, have understandably led to increased scrutiny. Many observers are eager to see how he will navigate his responsibilities moving forward, particularly considering his weakened vocal capacity due to lung damage from pneumonia.
As Dr. Alfieri articulated, "In bilateral pneumonia, the lungs are damaged and the respiratory muscles are put to the test. One loses a bit of the voice, as when one speaks too loudly. It takes time for the voice to return." This reality underscores the linear path of recovery that the pontiff will need to traverse gradually.
The future of Pope Francis's public engagements remains to be seen amid ongoing speculation and concern. As he prepares to return to the Vatican, both the Church and the global community await further updates on his health and participation in future church events.
Overall, this marks a pivotal moment for Pope Francis, who continues to face new health challenges as he serves his community. The world is acutely aware of his ongoing journey and recovery, promising a combination of hope and anticipation as he transitions back to the Vatican.
As such, Pope Francis's departure from the hospital signifies not just a return to his residence but also heralds the beginning of a challenging path ahead—one that will require patience, healing, and perhaps a redefinition of his public presence in the months to come.
