Pope Francis, who has been hospitalized at the Policlinico Gemelli since February 14, 2025, continues to receive support from the public and maintain his spirits during his recovery. On March 2, 2025, he met with Cardinal Secretary of State Pietro Parolin and Monsignor Edgar Pena Parra at the hospital, emphasizing his connection to the global faithful.
According to Matteo Bruni, director of the Vatican Press Office, the Pope has had restful nights, waking to enjoy coffee and read the newspapers as he continues his therapy sessions. "The night was peaceful. The Pope is resting still," Vatican representatives reported. He is said to be stable, with reports indicating he is alternating non-invasive mechanical ventilation with high-flow oxygen therapy. His doctors are monitoring his condition closely.
Pope Francis has been active even during his hospitalization, sending messages through social media platforms expressing gratitude for the countless prayers directed toward his recovery. "I feel supported by all the prayers, which rise to the Lord from the hearts of many believers from many parts of the world: I feel all your affection and closeness, and, at this special time, I feel 'carried' and sustained by all the People of God," he wrote. This sentiment resonates deeply among his followers, many of whom have gathered outside the hospital to pray and show support.
For the third Sunday consecutively, the Pope has sent the text of the Angelus from his hospital room. His reflections during these messages have highlighted the blessing found even within the fragility of illness. "There is a blessing within the fragility of the sick," he noted, indicating how he connects his experience with the suffering of others.
Outside the hospital, many have come together to pray for the Pope’s health, including those joining for the daily recitation of the Rosary. Their prayers echo the Pope’s own call for peace, which he reiterated from his hospital bed: "From here, the war appears even more absurd. Let us pray for Ukraine, for Palestine, Israel, Lebanon, Myanmar, Sudan, and Kivu." His messages during this time call for solidarity and peace, emphasizing the importance of collective prayer.
These gatherings and the wide-spread expressions of support demonstrate the Pope's significant impact, as well as the heartfelt concern from people around the world for his recovery. The Vatican has stated they will provide updates on his health as necessary, with additional medical briefings potentially scheduled for the coming days.
Casually shifting from medical updates to moments of reflection, today's Angelus included thoughts on community and care, tying his current situation back to the broader experiences of the suffering. His appreciation for the care he receives echoes his message about the compassion due to all who are ill. "The Pope thanks the doctors and healthcare workers for their kindness and attention," Bruni stated, reaffirming the institutional commitment to the Pope's wellness.
Overall, the atmosphere around Gemelli Hospital remains hopeful. Visitors and supporters alike contribute to the sense of solidarity with the Pope, who, through his illness, continues to inspire and lead prayers for peace around the world. This collective display of faith and affection for him stands as testimony to his role as a unifying figure of hope and resilience during challenging times.
With more updates expected throughout the day, the church and the global community remain uplinked to the developments of Pope Francis’s health. The coming hours may provide either additional insights from the Pope or updates from his medical team, marking another day of communal support and fervent hopes for recovery.