Pope Francis to appear publicly for first time in five weeks

English , International - بین الاقوامی , Snippets , / Saturday, March 22nd, 2025

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RKI Network
VATICAN CITY, March 22 — Pope Francis is set to make his first public appearance in five weeks on Sunday after being hospitalized for double pneumonia. The 88-year-old pontiff will greet well-wishers from Rome’s Gemelli Hospital following the Angelus prayer, marking the 38th day of his hospitalization.
This will be the first time in over a month that Pope Francis will lead the weekly Angelus prayer, a role he has typically fulfilled each Sunday. However, for the past five weeks, the Vatican has shared written texts of his messages in his absence.
Pope Francis’ hospitalization is his longest since becoming pope 12 years ago. Although he has not been seen publicly, he has released a short audio message and a photo showing him praying at the hospital chapel.
The Vatican reported that the pope’s health is improving, with his pneumonia under control. While he no longer needs assisted breathing, he continues to receive oxygen.
In his time in hospital, Pope Francis has also approved a significant three-year reform plan for the Catholic Church, focusing on empowering women and increasing the involvement of non-clergy in decision-making. While his recovery continues, the Vatican has not confirmed when he will be discharged, leaving uncertainty about his participation in upcoming Holy Week and Easter service