Pope Francis expressed his concern over the intensification of violence in some areas of Syria and requested respect for all affected communities. During the celebration of a holy mass in St. Peter's Square for the Jubilee of the World of Volunteering, the pontiff emphasized the importance of volunteering, considering it a prophecy and a sign of hope in societies heavily influenced by market logic.
In a special acknowledgment, the Pope recognized the work and dedication of volunteers, as well as of doctors and healthcare personnel who care for the sick, based on his personal experience during his hospitalization. In that vein, he expressed his spiritual solidarity with participants in the Spiritual Exercises of the Roman Curia.
Francisco's health, at 88 years old, is reported as "gradual and mild," but doctors maintain a reserved prognosis and have not determined the additional duration of his hospitalization. Since his admission on February 14 due to bronchitis that led to bilateral pneumonia, the Pope has not been present at the Angelus for four consecutive Sundays.
During his stay at the Gemelli hospital in Rome, the Pope issued a message thanking all those who offer their closeness in prayer and requesting the "miracle of tenderness" to illuminate the darkness of pain. His prolonged absence raises doubts about his ability to fully perform his duties during the Jubilee, when numerous pilgrims visit Rome.
Although Francis has ruled out the idea of resigning, as Benedict XVI did, and canonical law has no specific provisions in case his health affects his lucidity, the pontiff has continued to pray for peace in various conflict zones worldwide, such as Ukraine, Palestine, Israel, Lebanon, Myanmar, Sudan, and the Democratic Republic of the Congo.
