Pope Francis Sends Message of Gratitude Amid Ongoing Hospitalization

 Pope Francis Sends Message of Gratitude Amid Ongoing Hospitalization

Pope Francis Shares Message of Gratitude Amid Hospitalization in Rome

As he continues his hospitalization in Rome, Pope Francis shared a personal message on Sunday, expressing gratitude for the outpouring of support he has received.

"I have recently received many messages of affection, and I have been particularly struck by the letters and drawings from children," the pope posted on X. "Thank you for your closeness, and for the consoling prayers I have received from all over the world!"

In a follow-up post, he encouraged believers to embrace love and service. "I urge you to continue your apostolate with joy and to be a sign of a love that embraces everyone, as the #GospelOfTheDay suggests," he wrote. "May we transform evil into goodness and build a fraternal world. Do not be afraid to take risks for love!"

The pope’s message echoed themes from a homily he had prepared for the Jubilee of Deacons, which was read on his behalf by Archbishop Rino Fisichella during Sunday’s Holy Mass at Saint Peter’s Basilica.

"Brothers and sisters, happy Sunday!" his homily began. "This morning, in Saint Peter’s Basilica, the celebration of the Eucharist with the Ordination of some candidates to the diaconate was celebrated. I greet them and the participants in the Jubilee of Deacons, which has taken place in the Vatican in these days; and I thank the Dicasteries for the Clergy and for Evangelization for the preparation of this event."

He encouraged deacons to serve with joy, emphasizing the transformative power of love. "Do not be afraid to risk love!" he urged.

Regarding his own condition, Pope Francis reassured the faithful that he was following his treatment at Gemelli Hospital and acknowledged the dedication of medical professionals. "Rest is also part of the therapy!" he wrote.

In closing, he reflected on an important global issue, noting that Monday would mark the third anniversary of the war in Ukraine. "A painful and shameful occasion for the whole of humanity!" he stated.