Pope Francis was discharged this Sunday after 38 days of hospitalization at the Gemelli Hospital in Rome. The 88-year-old pontiff had been admitted on February 14 due to bilateral pneumonia that put his life at risk. His departure from the hospital was met with emotion and relief from the faithful, who had been closely following his health condition.

Before leaving the medical center, Pope Francis made a brief appearance on the hospital balcony, where he greeted those present with a gesture of gratitude and gave them his blessing. With a visibly weak appearance, the pontiff seemed in good spirits and received applause from the gathered crowd, who chanted "Viva il Papa" and "Papa Francesco."

On his way back to the Vatican, the Pope made a stop at the Basilica of St. Mary Major, where his favorite image of the Virgin, the Salus Populi Romani, is located. From his car, he handed a bouquet of flowers to a cardinal to place before the iconic Byzantine painting, in a gesture of devotion and gratitude.

Francis returned to his residence at Casa Santa Marta, within the Vatican, where doctors have recommended two months of rest and gradual recovery. During this period, he will avoid large gatherings and physical exertion to allow his lungs to regain strength. Despite the severity of his illness, specialists have indicated that he will be able to resume his usual activities in the future.

The Pope’s hospitalization caused concern both inside and outside the Church. During his stay at Gemelli Hospital, Francis faced several complications, including respiratory crises that required constant medical assistance and specialized treatments. His personal physician, Dr. Luigi Carbone, stated that at times the situation was critical, but that the pontiff's strength and the medical care provided enabled his recovery.

This has been the longest hospitalization of his 12-year papacy and the second longest in recent Vatican history, only surpassed by Saint John Paul II’s hospitalization in 1981. The news of his discharge has been met with joy among the faithful, who have prayed for his speedy recovery.

Although there is uncertainty about his immediate schedule, it is expected that the Pope may participate in the Holy Week celebrations and possibly in future pastoral trips. His presence at the 2025 Jubilee, which will bring millions of pilgrims to Rome, is another key event in which his participation is anticipated.

For now, Francis will focus on his convalescence, aiming to regain energy and continue his pastoral mission as the leader of the Catholic Church.