Pope Francis seen in hospital for first time as Vatican releases photo

Pope Francis concelebrates Holy Mass in the chapel of the apartment on the tenth floor of the Gemelli hospital, where he continues his treatment. PHOTO: REUTERS

UPDATED Mar 17, 2025, 03:22 AM

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VATICAN CITY - The Vatican on March 16 released the first image of Pope Francis in hospital since he began treatment for double pneumonia, in which the 88-year-old pontiff appears to be breathing unaided.

The Pope was admitted to Rome's Gemelli hospital on Feb 14 with a severe respiratory infection that has required evolving treatment. He has not been seen in public since.

Pope Francis is pictured from behind in the image as he is seated in a chapel at the hospital. The side of his face is visible and his right hand rests on his lap. He appears to be breathing on his own in the photo, after receiving oxygen throughout his treatment in hospital.

The Vatican said the photo was taken on March 16, when the Pope celebrated Mass with other priests in the chapel.

In its latest medical update, issued on March 15, the Vatican said that Pope Francis was gradually improving and was reducing his use of mechanical ventilation at night to help with breathing.

The Pope has been described as being in a stable or improving condition for nearly two weeks, but the Vatican has not yet given a timeframe for his discharge from hospital, saying his recovery is going slowly.

Pope Francis is prone to lung infections because he had pleurisy as a young adult and had part of one lung removed.

The Pope has been undergoing respiratory physiotherapy in hospital to help with his breathing and physical therapy to help with his mobility. He has used a wheelchair in recent years due to knee and back pain.

Pope Francis, elected Pope in 2013, celebrated his 12th anniversary from hospital on March 13.

Doctors not involved in the Pope’s care have said he is likely to face a long, fraught road to recovery, given his age and other medical conditions.

On March 15, the Vatican announced that Pope Francis had to consider reforms for the global Catholic Church, in a sign that he intends to continue on as Pope, despite his health difficulties. REUTERS

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