Pope Francis' condition continues to worry many Catholics across the globe. On Sunday, February 23, the Holy Father issued his weekly Sunday Angelus message. In it, he addressed the war between Russia and Ukraine. He also dedicated words of encouragement to Deacons as part of the Jubilee of Deacons. Francis also gave an update on his health and thanked the faithful for their affection.
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Focusing on his current health status, Francis dedicated a paragraph of his Angelus message to explain his hospitalization.
"On my part, I am confidently continuing my hospitalization at the Gemelli Hospital, carrying on with the necessary treatment; and rest is also part of the therapy!" said Francis in the Vatican-translated message, obtained by Aleteia. "I sincerely thank the doctors and health workers of this hospital for the attention they are showing me and the dedication with which they carry out their service among the sick."
Pope Francis then thanked all the affectionate messages he has received from millions of Catholics and others across the globe. In particular, Francis mentions being "particularly struck" by letters and drawings made by children.
"Thank you for this closeness, and for the prayers of comfort I have received from all over the world!" Francis concluded. "I entrust you all to the intercession of Mary, and I ask you to pray for me."
Deacons And Ukraine
The Jubilee of Deacons started on Friday, February 21, and ended on Sunday, February 23 at the Vatican. Therefore, Pope Francis used a paragraph to address the deacons. In his words, they carry out their ministry in the Church "with words and deeds, bringing God's love and mercy to everyone."
"I urge you to continue your apostolate with joy and - as today's Gospel suggests - to be a sign of a love that embraces everyone, that transforms evil into goodness and engenders a fraternal world," Francis wrote. "Do not be afraid to risk love!"
The Pope also addressed the third anniversary of the Russian invasion of Ukraine, taking place on Monday, February 24. He called the war a "painful and shameful occasion for the whole of humanity."
"As I reiterate my closeness to the suffering Ukrainian people, I invite you to remember the victims of all armed conflicts, and to pray for the gift of peace in Palestine, Israel and throughout the Middle East, Myanmar, Kivu and Sudan," Francis added.
According to Aleteia, Pope Francis was not intubated at the time and has not received any further blood transfusions. A short update issued by the Vatican only stated the following: "The night passed peacefully, the pope rested." He was previously treated for pneumonia and a lung infection. Contrary to before, the latest Vatican note did not mention if the Pope ate breakfast.
