ROME — Pope Francis commemorated the 12th anniversary of his pontificate uniquely, as the first pontiff in modern history to spend this occasion in a hospital, celebrating with a cake and receiving an outpour of well wishes as his recovery shows positive signs.
On the morning of the anniversary, the pope participated in physiotherapy, engaged in spiritual exercises associated with Lent, and took time to pray in the chapel of the Gemelli Hospital. This facility has been his temporary home since he began treatment for a complex lung infection on February 14. In a gesture of celebration, the hospital staff presented him with a cake in the afternoon.
A recent chest X-ray revealed improvements in the pope’s condition, as announced by Vatican officials just days after doctors declared he was no longer in immediate danger. However, the 88-year-old pontiff’s overall health remains delicate given his age, reliance on a wheelchair due to limited mobility, and the fact he had part of a lung removed during his youth. Although no new medical bulletins were issued on his anniversary, his condition is noted as stable.
Elected on March 13, 2013, Pope Francis is the 266th leader of the Catholic Church and notably, its first pope from Latin America. While his anniversary is recognized as a public holiday within the Vatican, no specific celebrations were organized, though a Mass was held in his honor at an Argentine church in Rome attended by a small group of worshippers.
Pilgrims and followers worldwide have shared hundreds of messages and drawings, offering prayers for his swift recovery. Gemelli Hospital, a short distance from the Vatican, has turned into a pilgrimage site as part of the Jubilee Year events.
One pilgrim group from the Veneto region of Italy, led by the Rev. Enrico Bortolaso, included a hospital visit in their itinerary to pray for the pope’s recuperation, reflecting acknowledgment of his advanced age and the health challenges he faces.
Pope John Paul II, who also endured a considerable hospital stay at Gemelli, humorously referred to it as “Vatican 3” during his time. Cardinal Marcello Semeraro noted the symbolic nature of Francis’ presence there, indicating it as a place of vulnerability where he continues his papal duties.
The significance of Pope Francis spending his pontificate anniversary in a hospital is underscored, with historical references to it being unprecedented in modern times.
Throughout the week, the pope has continued his observance of the annual Lenten spiritual retreat, a tradition in his papacy, though the focus has shifted from work to recovery. His medical regime includes receiving oxygen through nasal tubes during the day and a mechanical mask at night, alongside physical therapy essential for his recovery.
Originally Cardinal Jorge Mario Bergoglio, Francis was chosen as pope in the 2013 conclave after Pope Benedict XVI’s resignation. Though he has acknowledged Benedict’s decision to retire, Francis has recently reiterated his commitment to serve for life.
As Friday approaches, Francis will mark a significant four weeks since being admitted to the hospital, reflecting a notable chapter in his ongoing pontificate.