Pope Francis has acknowledged that he is “fragile”, in a message issued through the Vatican today.
Today marked the fifth Sunday in a row that the Pope had not delivered his traditional Sunday Angelus prayer in person, but instead via a message published by the Vatican.
It’s as the 88-year-old Pontiff continues to battle lung issues, despite some positive improvements being noted in recent days.
“I am sharing these thoughts with you while I am facing a period of trial, and I join with so many brothers and sisters who are sick: fragile, at this time, like me,” Pope Francis wrote as part of his personal message this Sunday.
“Our bodies are weak but, even like this, nothing can prevent us from loving, praying, giving ourselves, being for each other, in faith, shining signs of hope,” the Pontiff said.
The Pope also issued his thanks to all of the hospital staff that have aided in his care, and the many well wishes he has received during his prolonged hospital stay.
He is expected to remain in hospital for a period, with the Vatican issuing an update yesterday stating that the aging pontiff requires “… hospital medical therapy, motor and respiratory physiotherapy,” which have resulted in his condition “showing further, gradual improvements.”
