Pope Francis: Praise God, who never abandons us

Pope prays after celebrating Mass in hospital

Source: Vatican Media

The Holy See Press Office released a photo of Pope Francis this evening, (Sunday). It shows him in prayer, wearing his cassock and stole after concelebrating Mass in the morning. This is the first photo since his hospitalisation on 14 February.

On Sunday morning around 200 children from UNICEF and various groups from Italy gathered in the square in front of Gemelli Hospital bearing flowers, balloons, and a "symbolic embrace" for the Pope.

The Pope's medical condition remains stable, but medical staff say it is still "complex."

In his Angelus reflection, which was read to pilgrims in St Peter's Square during the Angelus gathering, Pope Francis spoke about the period of trial he is experiencing, and highlighted the "shining signs of hope" that illuminate hospitals and places of care.

Reflecting on the day's Gospel he said, in the mystery of the Transfiguration, "Jesus immerses Himself in prayer and becomes radiant with light." in "In this way, Jesus shows the disciples what is hidden behind the gestures He performs in their midst: the light of His infinite love."

Reflecting on the "period of trial" he, along with so many others who are sick, are undergoing at this time, the Pope said: "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."

Pope Francis emphasised the "light" that shines in hospitals and places of care, the love that "illuminates" all the places where "the humblest services are performed," and he invited everyone to join him "in praising the Lord, Who never abandons us and who, in times of sorrow, places people beside us who reflect a ray of His love."

He thanked all those who are praying for him, especially the many children, including some who have come to Gemelli to show their closeness. "The Pope loves you," Pope Francis said, "and is always looking forward to meeting you."

Pope Francis ended his Angelus reflection with prayers, first for peace throughout the world, especially in "countries wounded by war: tormented Ukraine, Palestine, Israel, Lebanon, Myanmar, Sudan, and the Democratic Republic of Congo." Finally, he called for prayers for the Church, as it continues the implementation phase of the synodal journey.

Read the official English translation of the Pope's reflection here: www.vatican.va/content/francesco/en/angelus/2025/documents/20250316-angelus.html