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POPE FRANCIS CONCELEBRATES MASS AT HOSPITAL CHAPEL AS HE CONTINUES RECOVERY

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  CapitalTimesNews / 3 weeks
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• 2 min read

The Vatican has released the first photo of Pope Francis since his hospitalization, showing him concelebrating Mass at the chapel in Rome’s Gemelli hospital. The photo shows Francis wearing a stole, a vestment worn to concelebrate Mass. The Vatican announced that Francis concelebrated Mass at the chapel, marking a significant step in his recovery. Concelebration means being among the priests presiding over the Mass, indicating that Francis has gone beyond just participating in Mass or receiving the Eucharist. The 88-year-old pontiff has been battling pneumonia at the hospital in Rome, in what is his longest stay since his election as pope 12 years ago. The Vatican said Francis continued with his treatments and therapies, worked, and did not have any visitors on Sunday. Earlier on Sunday, Francis thanked well-wishers for their prayers as he faces what he calls a “period of trial.” In the text of his weekly Angelus prayer, he said, “I thank you all for your prayers, and I thank those who assist me with such dedication.” Francis also expressed his gratitude to the children who gathered outside the hospital to show their support. “I know that many children are praying for me; some of them came here today to ‘Gemelli’ as a sign of closeness. Thank you, dearest children! The Pope loves you and is always waiting to meet you.” The Pontiff also prayed for peace, especially in countries affected by war. “Let us continue to pray for peace, especially in the countries wounded by war: tormented Ukraine, Palestine, Israel, Lebanon, Myanmar, Sudan, and the Democratic Republic of the Congo.” The Vatican press office said the Pontiff remains in stable condition but still requires medical treatment. Despite his hospital stay, Francis has signaled his plans to remain in the post, approving a new three-year reform process for the Catholic Church.