Vatican Releases First Photo of Pope Francis Since Hospitalization

The 88-year-old pontiff, recovering from severe respiratory illness, is shown celebrating Mass in a hospital chapel as his condition improves.

The Vatican shared an image of Pope Francis in a wheelchair at the Gemelli hospital chapel, his first photo since being hospitalized on February 14.
The pope, recovering from double pneumonia and other complications, participated in a Mass for the first time during his hospital stay.
Doctors report his condition is stable and improving, though his age and medical history make his recovery complex and ongoing.
Dozens of children, including those from war-torn regions, gathered outside the hospital to offer prayers and messages of support for the pope.
The Vatican emphasized the pope's continued work on church reforms during his hospitalization, including advancing discussions on laity participation and women's roles in the church.