The pope returned to the Vatican after a five-week hospitalization due to double pneumonia, marking the most serious health crisis of his 12-year papacy. At 88 years old, he made his first public appearance since February 14, leaving Rome’s Gemelli hospital shortly after noon.
Accompanied by police vehicles, the pontiff made a brief stop to deliver flowers to the Basilica of Saint Mary Major, a site he frequently visits and holds dear. While he has returned home, doctors noted that it will take "a lot of time" for his aged body to heal fully. They advised further rest at the Vatican and recommended that he avoid large or stressful meetings, leaving the extent of his upcoming activities uncertain.
Before leaving the hospital, Francis smiled and waved at well-wishers gathered outside, utilizing a wheelchair as he has in recent years. He appeared with a slightly swollen face and visible bandages on both arms beneath his white cassock, and he addressed the crowd with a weak voice, thanking 79-year-old Carmela Vittoria Mancuso, who had brought him yellow flowers. Mancuso expressed overwhelming joy upon the pope's recognition.
The pontiff had been seen publicly only once during his hospitalization, in a released image showing him in prayer. Although he had required oxygen throughout his stay, he was breathing independently during the appearance, though a small oxygen hose was visible as he traveled in his car.
As he prepared to appear, a crowd of hundreds called out his name in support. Francis, who became pope in 2013, was initially admitted for bronchitis that progressed into a "complex" infection with multiple microorganisms.
During his 38 days in the hospital, he experienced four acute respiratory episodes characterized by severe coughing fits, similar to asthma attacks. Two of these crises were critical, putting his health in jeopardy, as explained by Sergio Alfieri, the head of his medical team.
While pneumonic symptoms have subsided, the pope is not yet fully recuperated, with Alfieri indicating it will take time for him to regain complete use of his voice after such a prolonged illness.
The Vatican released a brief message from Francis thanking his doctors for their "tireless care." Many Catholics worldwide had offered prayers for his recovery, and pilgrims at the Vatican celebrated his discharge.
"This discharge cheers us all up and gives us joy and hope," said Italian Grazia Mara. "We wish him a safe return home and a speedy recovery."
Despite his health challenges, the pope continued leading the Church from his hospital bed, making appointments for bishops around the world and launching new initiatives. However, a two-month recovery period may necessitate significant adjustments to the Vatican's upcoming schedule, including meetings with Britain's King Charles and overseeing the annual Easter celebrations on April 20.
The Vatican has not confirmed whether the pope will be able to fulfill these appointments.