by InTrieste
Pope Francis was discharged from Rome’s Gemelli Hospital on Sunday after a 38-day stay for double pneumonia, making his first public appearance since being hospitalized on February 14.
Shortly before departing the hospital in a white Fiat 500 just after midday, the 88-year-old pontiff appeared briefly on a balcony, smiling and offering blessings to the crowd gathered below. “Thank you to everyone, especially the lady with the yellow flowers,” he said before giving a thumbs-up and being wheeled back inside.
The pope then returned to Casa Santa Marta, his Vatican residence, where he will continue medical treatment and undergo a period of convalescence expected to last “at least two months,” according to Dr. Sergio Alfieri, the head of the medical team that oversaw his care.
“The good news that the whole world is waiting for is that tomorrow the Holy Father is being discharged, he will return to Santa Marta,” Alfieri told reporters at a news briefing on Saturday evening, describing the pope’s condition as “stable.”
Francis, who has long struggled with respiratory issues, was admitted to Gemelli Hospital after experiencing breathing difficulties last month. The prolonged hospitalization raised concerns about his health, particularly given his increasing reliance on a wheelchair and past surgeries, including the removal of part of one lung in his youth.
Vatican officials have not yet confirmed when Francis will resume his full public schedule, but Alfieri emphasized that the pope’s recovery remains the priority. “The Holy Father is strong,” he said, “but he must take the necessary time to regain his energy.”
The pope’s return to the Vatican comes just ahead of the busy Easter season, with Holy Week celebrations set to begin in late March. Whether Francis will be able to personally preside over the major liturgical events remains uncertain.
