Pope Francis to leave hospital Sunday after month-long treatment

Pope Francis is expected to be discharged on Sunday following a month-long stay at Gemelli Hospital, where he was treated for double pneumonia, according to Dr. Sergio Alfieri, the head of his medical team.

“The Holy Father will be discharged from tomorrow in stable clinical condition with a prescription to partially continue drug therapy and a convalescence and rest period of at least two months,” Alfieri said during a press conference on Saturday. “Today we are happy to say that tomorrow he will be at home,” he added.

Before departing for Casa Santa Marta, his residence since 2013, the pontiff is scheduled to make a public appearance from the hospital balcony, Vatican spokesman Matteo Bruni confirmed.

Francis, who was admitted on February 14, has made significant progress in his recovery, though some infections persist, said Dr. Luigi Carbone, Vice-Director of the Vatican’s healthcare service. While his voice is improving, he still requires additional time to regain full strength.

After his discharge, the 88-year-old pope will continue with prescribed therapy and physiotherapy, Carbone noted.

The Vatican press office announced that Francis will deliver a blessing and greet well-wishers following Sunday’s Angelus prayer. Though he typically leads the prayer and shares a reflection each week, he has been unable to do so for the past five Sundays.

This hospitalization marks the longest stay in Gemelli for the pope since his election 12 years ago. Though he has not made public appearances in recent weeks, the Vatican has shared updates, including an audio message and a photograph of him praying in the hospital chapel.

During his hospital stay, there were two instances when the pope’s life was at serious risk, according to Vatican officials and his medical team. However, Carbone reassured reporters that Francis has been in good spirits and eager to leave the hospital in recent days.

The Vatican had previously reported that the pope’s condition was improving and that his pneumonia was under control.

Despite his extended hospitalization, Francis recently approved a new three-year reform process for the Catholic Church, signaling his intent to continue leading. The proposed reforms include expanding roles for women, such as ordaining them as deacons, and increasing non-clergy participation in governance and decision-making.