Pope Francis Marks Three Weeks Hospitalized, Releases Audio Message

Pope Francis remains hospitalized with double pneumonia, marking three weeks since his admission to Rome's Gemelli hospital on February 14. The Vatican reported his condition as stable yet complex, following an audio message he recorded that was broadcast to pilgrims in St. Peter's Square, where he expressed gratitude for their prayers but sounded weak and breathless. This message served to reassure the public and counter online speculation regarding his health, while simultaneously highlighting his frailty, as he struggled to speak. Doctors indicated they would likely provide another update on his status on Saturday, as he had a restful night and showed no recent respiratory crises. The pope's health has sparked a mix of hope and concern among the faithful, with many expressing joy at hearing from him, despite the evident struggle in his voice. His situation underscores the challenges posed by his age and chronic health issues, including a history of lung disease.