Pope Francis, in his Angelus message on Sunday, shared words of gratitude and encouragement, recognizing those who bring God’s love into the world through their compassionate care for the sick. As he continues his own recovery, the Holy Father reflected on the importance of loving service and the hope that faith provides even in times of suffering.
“I would like to invite you, today, to join me in praising the Lord, who never abandons us and who, in times of sorrow, places people beside us who reflect a ray of his love,” Pope Francis said, according to his prepared remarks. His message acknowledged not only his own medical team but also the countless individuals who dedicate themselves to caring for the sick, shining “the light of God’s infinite life in hospitals and places of care.”
The Pope’s message highlighted the significance of small, everyday acts of love and kindness. “How much loving care illuminates the rooms, the corridors, the clinics, the places where the humblest services are performed!” he said, recognizing the often-overlooked contributions of healthcare workers and caregivers.
A Time of Trial and Hope
While the Vatican has reported that Pope Francis is “showing further, gradual improvements,” he remains under hospital care at Rome’s Gemelli Hospital, where he was admitted on February 14. Even in the midst of personal suffering, the Holy Father reminded the faithful that illness does not prevent a person from living out their faith.
“I am sharing these thoughts with you while I am facing a period of trial,” he said. “Our bodies are weak but, even like this, nothing can prevent us from loving, praying, giving ourselves, being for each other, in faith, shining signs of hope.”
The Pope also expressed his deep appreciation for children who have been praying for his recovery. “Thank you, dearest children! The pope loves you and is always waiting to meet you,” he shared, acknowledging their simple yet powerful faith.
A Call to Prayer for Peace and the Church
Pope Francis also used his Angelus message to call for prayers for countries suffering from war and violence. He specifically mentioned Ukraine, Palestine, Israel, Lebanon, Myanmar, Sudan, and the Democratic Republic of Congo, urging Catholics to seek the intercession of the Blessed Virgin Mary for peace. “May the Virgin Mary keep you and help you to be, like her, bearers of Christ’s light and peace,” he prayed.
Looking ahead, the Holy Father asked for prayers for the Church as it continues to implement the discernment from the recent synodal assembly. The next synodality assembly is set to take place in October 2028, marking the conclusion of the implementation phase of the Synod on Synodality.
“Let us also pray for the Church, required to translate into concrete choices the discernment made in the recent synodal assembly,” Pope Francis stated, according to his address. He also extended his gratitude to those guiding this process, saying, “I thank the general secretariat of the synod, which over the coming three years will accompany the local Churches in this undertaking.”
Faith in Action
As Pope Francis continues to recover, his words serve as a powerful reminder of the importance of faith, service, and prayer. His gratitude for those who care for the sick echoes the call of the Gospel to love and serve one another, especially the most vulnerable. His message encourages Catholics to continue being sources of God’s light in a world that desperately needs hope and healing.
In times of trial, the Pope’s words remind the faithful that even in suffering, one can still love, pray, and be a witness to Christ. His call to prayer for peace and for the Church invites Catholics everywhere to remain engaged in the spiritual and communal life of the Church, trusting in God’s providence and love.
