In a long-awaited development, Pope Francis is set to leave the Agostino Gemelli Hospital in Rome on March 23, marking the end of a challenging five-week hospital stay due to a double pneumonia. The 88-year-old pontiff will return to his residence at the Vatican, where he is expected to undergo a lengthy convalescence lasting at least two months.
The announcement of the Pope's release was made by Dr. Sergio Alfieri during a press conference at the hospital, where he confirmed that the Pope has been inquiring about his return to the Vatican for several days. “The Pope was very happy today; he had been asking for three or four days when he could go back,” said Dr. Alfieri. He reassured followers about the Pope’s improving condition, stating that subsequent progress would be better achieved at home as hospitals are often breeding grounds for infections.
This marks a significant moment as Pope Francis has not been seen in public since February 1, 2025, and he has missed the weekly Angelus prayer since February 9. The last time he appeared before the public was on February 14, which was also notable for being the first time he missed his regular Sunday prayers since his papacy began in March 2013.
The Pope's hospitalization has raised questions about the management of religious events leading up to Easter on April 20, 2025. Although efforts to plan for the period are underway, the Vatican has so far revealed that no definitive decisions have been made regarding who will preside over the upcoming ceremonies.
As a part of his transition back to routine, the Pope will make a brief appearance from the hospital to offer a greeting and blessing around midday on March 23. This event will be published in written form, similar to previous weeks during his hospitalization. Dr. Alfieri provided insights, explaining the necessity for a gradual return to the Pope's demanding schedule, which involves numerous appointments and religious obligations.
“Further improvements will happen at home because, strangely, the hospital is the worst place to convalesce: it’s where one contracts the most infections,” he noted, emphasizing the vital importance of a recovery environment that is conducive to healing.
Following multiple public concerns regarding the Pope's health, appearance and mental fitness, Dr. Alfieri and his medical team assured the public that the Pope's health is improving, and he hopes to carry out his regular duties as soon as possible. However, they acknowledged that significant adjustments would be required during his recovery period.
Explicitly, the doctors have advised that while he is recovering, he will not hold his usual daily meetings or prayers, a cautious approach considering the Pope's recent health challenges. This will be essential to manage not just his physical health, but also to prevent future complications.
In preparation for the Pope's eventual re-engagement in public duties, observers are keenly watching to see how the Vatican will adapt its agendas to fit the Pope's health needs and schedule. This period of convalescence is anticipated to be a time not only of recovery for Pope Francis but also a potential pivot point for how the Vatican addresses public engagement during the pontiff’s declining health.
As the world awaits the Pope’s first public greeting after a lengthy absence, many are hopeful for a positive message and sign of strength from the Holy Father. While uncertainty looms behind the scenes regarding event management during Easter week, the promise of a gradual return gives hope to his faithful followers around the globe.
Pope Francis notably has a history of respiratory problems, having had a part of his lung removed in his youth, which further complicates the current scenario of his health management. His experience highlights a critical moment for the Catholic Church, as the pontiff navigates between health and duty.
The Vatican’s communication team continues to provide updates as the situation develops, striving to maintain transparency with the public amid widespread speculation and concern regarding the pontiff's future engagements. Meanwhile, as Easter approaches, the focus will be on ensuring the religious community is appropriately prepared for this sacred period, regardless of the Pope’s physical presence.
