Pope Francis Slowly Returns After Double Pneumonia

Pope Francis, aged 88, is gradually resuming public duties after recovering from double pneumonia that required a five-week stay at Rome's Gemelli Hospital. He recently met with about 70 medical staff to thank them for saving his life and for their dedicated care. Doctors have advised the Pope to rest for two months, so his participation in major Easter celebrations remains uncertain and the Vatican has delegated these duties to senior cardinals in the interim. Additionally, Francis made a surprise visit to Rome’s Regina Coeli prison to offer Easter greetings to inmates, continuing his Holy Week tradition. At both events, he appeared without oxygen support, showing signs of improvement but ongoing frailty. These developments mark his gradual return to public life following his most serious health crisis as pope.