Pope Francis to Leave Hospital, Begins Two-Month Recovery at Vatican

By Ekpenyong Emmanuel

Pope Francis is set to be discharged from Rome’s Gemelli Hospital on Sunday, March 23, after spending over five weeks receiving treatment for pneumonia and other respiratory complications.

According to Dr. Sergio Alfieri, one of the pontiff’s attending physicians, the 88-year-old leader of the Catholic Church will return to his residence at Saint Martha’s House in the Vatican.

The pope is expected to undergo a lengthy convalescence period of at least two months.

Dr. Alfieri stated, “The pope will leave the hospital tomorrow and continue his recovery at home. Further progress will take place at his residence, as hospitals—ironically—are not always the best places to recover due to the risk of infections.”

The prolonged hospitalization of Pope Francis has raised concerns about his ability to fulfill his duties, particularly with Easter, the most significant period in the Christian calendar, fast approaching.

The pope has missed five consecutive Angelus prayers—an unprecedented occurrence in his 12-year papacy.

Despite his health challenges, Vatican Secretary of State Pietro Parolin dismissed speculation about a possible resignation.

“No, no, no, absolutely not,” he responded when asked about the possibility of Pope Francis stepping down, reaffirming the pontiff’s commitment to leading the Church.

Throughout his hospitalization, Catholics worldwide have expressed their support for Pope Francis, offering prayers and leaving flowers, candles, and messages of encouragement outside the hospital.

Many are hopeful that his return to the Vatican will mark a steady path to recovery.

The Vatican has also confirmed that, before leaving the hospital, Pope Francis plans to wave and offer a blessing from Gemelli, continuing to engage with the faithful despite his health struggles.

As the pope prepares to resume his duties gradually, the world will be watching to see how he navigates the coming weeks, balancing his recovery with his responsibilities as the head of the Catholic Church.