After over five weeks in the hospital due to a serious respiratory infection, Pope Francis is scheduled to leave Rome’s Gemelli Hospital today, March 23, 2025.
The 88-year-old pontiff was admitted on February 14 because of severe bilateral pneumonia caused by a polymicrobial infection.
Brief Public Appearance Planned
Before heading back to the Vatican, Pope Francis is expected to appear at a window of the hospital at noon local time and greet the faithful. It will be Francis’s first public appearance since he was hospitalized, a moment many around the world have been waiting for with hope and in prayer.
“The good news is that the Holy Father is being discharged today,” said Dr. Sergio Alfieri, head of the medical team that treated the Pope. “He will return to Casa Santa Marta at the Vatican to continue his recovery.”
A Life-Threatening Illness
According to hospital officials, Pope Francis had two critical health episodes during his hospitalization in which he was reportedly at risk of his life. Though he required non-invasive mechanical ventilation and high-flow oxygen therapy, he never needed intubation and remained alert and oriented throughout his stay.
His condition has since stabilized, and the prognosis has been lifted. Doctors credit a combined pharmacological treatment regimen and careful monitoring for his recovery.
Two Months of Recovery Ahead
While being discharged, doctors have prescribed at least two months of rest and rehabilitation; during this period, Pope Francis is not expected to resume full public duties. The Vatican said that although he may well continue to work in private and keep abreast of global and Church affairs, major public engagements would be postponed.
“His recovery is steady, but time is required for complete healing,” said Dr. Alfieri. “We ask for patience and continued prayers during this period of convalescence.”
Staying Active Despite Hospitalization
During his 37-day hospitalization, Pope Francis remained very much involved in Vatican affairs and kept up with international events. Vatican officials say he continued to work quietly from his hospital room and kept in close touch with Church leaders and aides.
Worldwide Support and Anticipation
The entire world Catholic community has followed the Pope’s health, offering prayers and messages of support. News of his recovery and planned discharge was greeted with widespread relief and gratitude.
What’s Next?
Pope Francis will return to his residence in Casa Santa Marta in the Vatican today. His future schedule remains under review, Vatican sources said, with his health determining any future public appearances by the Pope. At the moment, there is no announced travel or in-person event scheduled for him in the coming period.
“The best place to recover is home,” Dr. Alfieri said. “We are hopeful that the Holy Father will regain his strength soon, but we are taking every precaution.”
Answering Popular Questions
Will Pope Francis be discharged from the hospital? – Yes, on March 23, 2025, he will be discharged from Gemelli Hospital in Rome.
For what ailment was Pope Francis treated? He was treated for serious bilateral pneumonia induced by a polymicrobial infection.
Will Pope Francis resume public duties? Doctors have recommended at least two months of rest before public engagements resume.
Where will Pope Francis recover? He will return to Casa Santa Marta in the Vatican for his recovery period.
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