Fri Mar 07 01:27:05 UTC 2025: ## Pope Francis Speaks Out From Hospital Bed, Offers Thanks for Prayers
**Rome, Italy – March 7, 2025** – Pope Francis, 88, offered a heartfelt message of thanks to well-wishers from his hospital bed in Rome on Thursday, marking his first public communication since being hospitalized three weeks ago with double pneumonia. His weak voice, recorded in Spanish, was broadcast to a gathering in St. Peter’s Square during the nightly rosary prayer. The emotional audio message, marked by labored breathing, reassured the faithful of his condition and underscored the severity of his illness.
The Pope’s message, a simple “I thank you from the bottom of my heart for your prayers,” was met with overwhelming applause from the crowd. Cardinal Ángel Fernández Artime, who announced the message, described it as a “beautiful gift.”
Hospitalized at Rome’s Gemelli hospital since February 14th, initially for bronchitis, Pope Francis’ condition worsened into a complex respiratory infection and double pneumonia. This marks the longest period he has been sidelined during his 12-year papacy, raising concerns about his future. While he has previously released written statements, this audio message, despite its fragility, highlighted his continued commitment to direct communication with his followers.
Doctors reported on Thursday that the Pope remains stable, with no new respiratory crises or fever. He is undergoing respiratory and physical therapy, using a non-invasive mechanical mask at night and a nasal tube for high-flow oxygen during the day. His prognosis, however, remains guarded. The planned spiritual retreat this weekend will proceed without him, but in “spiritual communion.” The next medical update is expected on Saturday.
First Piper 