Pope Francis Returns to Vatican after Five Weeks in Hospital

Pope Francis returned to the Vatican yesterday after spending five weeks in the hospital battling double pneumonia, marking the most serious health crisis of his 12-year papacy, according to a Reuters report.

The 88-year-old pontiff, who made his first public appearance since February 14 before being discharged from Rome’s Gemelli Hospital, left the facility shortly after noon. His car, escorted by police vehicles, made a brief stop at the Basilica of Saint Mary Major—a site he holds dear and frequently visits—before continuing to the Vatican.

Although he has returned home, doctors caution that his full recovery will take time. They have advised two more months of rest at the Vatican and recommended that he avoid large or strenuous gatherings, leaving uncertainty about his level of activity in the coming months.

Before departing the hospital, Pope Francis greeted a crowd of well-wishers, waving and smiling from his wheelchair, which he has used for several years. His face appeared swollen, and bandages were visible on both arms beneath his white cassock. He spoke briefly, his voice weak, to express gratitude to 79-year-old Carmela Vittoria Mancuso, a devoted supporter who visited daily during his stay and gifted him yellow flowers.

During his hospitalization, Francis had been seen by the public only once, in a photo released by the Vatican showing him praying in a hospital chapel. Throughout his stay, he required oxygen to aid his breathing, and although he was breathing unaided during his public appearance, he was later seen using a nasal oxygen tube while traveling in his car.

As the pope appeared, a crowd of hundreds gathered outside, chanting his name in support. Traditionally, he delivers a Sunday prayer in St. Peter’s Square at noon, but he had been unable to do so since February 9, before his hospitalization. Though he did not recite the prayer in person, the Vatican released a prepared text in which he reflected on his time in the hospital.

“In this long period of hospitalization, I have had the opportunity to experience the patience of the Lord, which I also see reflected in the tireless care of doctors and healthcare workers, as well as in the devotion and hopes of the families of the sick,” the statement read.

Catholics around the world had been praying for his recovery, and pilgrims in the Vatican expressed relief at his return.

“This discharge cheers us all up and gives us joy and hope,” said Grazia Mara, an Italian pilgrim. “We wish him a safe return home and a speedy recovery.”

Despite his hospitalization, Pope Francis continued to lead the Church, making key appointments of Catholic bishops and launching a three-year reform initiative. However, the two-month rest period could lead to adjustments in the Vatican’s schedule, including planned meetings with Britain’s King Charles on April 8 and the annual Easter celebrations on April 20. The Vatican has yet to confirm whether he will be able to attend these events, Reuters added.