The 86‑year‑old pope was admitted to Rome’s Gemelli Hospital on Wednesday with breathing difficulties. After leaving the car that was transporting him, he smiled and joked with the crowd before heading to the Vatican to begin preparations for the most important week in the Christian calendar.
On Friday, the pope visited the children’s cancer ward, handing out chocolate Easter eggs and even baptising a week‑old baby boy, according to a video released by the Vatican. Vatican spokesman Matteo Bruni said Francis had been working earlier that day in the hospital’s private papal suite on the 10th floor, catching up on newspapers. The night before, he had shared a pizza with some hospital staff.
Francis was discharged as expected on Saturday, and Bruni confirmed that the pope would preside over the Palm Sunday Mass in St. Peter’s Square. The ceremony marks the beginning of Holy Week, which culminates in Easter.
This hospitalization is the pope’s second since 2021, when he underwent colon surgery at the same hospital. His increasing health issues over the past year have sparked widespread concern and speculation that he might consider retiring rather than remaining in the role for life. His predecessor, Benedict XVI, quit in 2013—a radical step not seen since the Middle Ages.
Visitors to St. Peter’s Square on Friday expressed relief at the pope’s improvement. “I was afraid for the pope,” said Davide, a 56‑year‑old Italian tourist. “But I’m happy he’s better, that he’s returning. For believers and the Catholic community, it’s important.”
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