© 2025 Connecticut Public

FCC Public Inspection Files:
WEDH · WEDN · WEDW · WEDY
WECS · WEDW-FM · WNPR · WPKT · WRLI-FM · WVOF
Public Files Contact · ATSC 3.0 FAQ
Play Live Radio
Next Up:
0:00
0:00
0:00 0:00
Available On Air Stations

Pope Francis seen praying in first photo since his hospitalization a month ago

In this photo released by the Vatican, Pope Francis is seen praying inside Rome's Gemelli Hospital on Sunday.
Vatican Press Hall
/
via AP
In this photo released by the Vatican, Pope Francis is seen praying inside Rome's Gemelli Hospital on Sunday.

A photo released by the Vatican on Sunday showed Pope Francis for the first time since he entered the hospital over a month ago for a case of bronchitis.

In the image published online by the Holy See Press Office, the pontiff was seen seated in a wheelchair in the private chapel of Rome's Gemelli Hospital.

Wearing a white cassock and purple stole, Francis was praying in front of the chapel's altar after having just finished celebrating mass Sunday morning, the Vatican said.

Though his voice has been heard — Francis sent an audio message to his supporters in early March — no one but his medical team and close advisers had seen the pope since he was hospitalized on Feb. 14.

Francis entered the hospital with a case of bronchitis and while there developed several other maladies, including a polymicrobial infection and double pneumonia. He is now in stable condition, and doctors say he has been responding well to treatments, particularly physical therapy.

In his weekly Angelus prayer released by the Vatican on Sunday, Francis reflected on the "period of trial" he and others have faced while sick.

"Our bodies are weak, but even like this, nothing can prevent us from loving, praying, giving ourselves, being shining signs of hope for one another in faith," he said.

Copyright 2025 NPR

Joe Hernandez
[Copyright 2024 NPR]

Stand up for civility

This news story is funded in large part by Connecticut Public’s Members — listeners, viewers, and readers like you who value fact-based journalism and trustworthy information.

We hope their support inspires you to donate so that we can continue telling stories that inform, educate, and inspire you and your neighbors. As a community-supported public media service, Connecticut Public has relied on donor support for more than 50 years.

Your donation today will allow us to continue this work on your behalf. Give today at any amount and join the 50,000 members who are building a better—and more civil—Connecticut to live, work, and play.

Related Content