'Thank You from the Bottom of My Heart': Pope Francis Releases New Audio Message from Hospital

Pope Francis, on Thursday, recorded and released an audio message expressing gratitude to his well-wishers and followers for praying for his recovery. This marked his first audio message since he was hospitalized nearly three weeks ago for double pneumonia.

He thanked people for their prayers and support during his treatment.

“I thank you from the bottom of my heart for your prayers for my health. From the square, I accompany you from here,” Francis said in a message broadcast in St. Peter’s Square.

“May God bless you, and the Virgin protect you. Thank you,” he said, speaking in his native Spanish and pausing every few words to take a deep breath.
 

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It was the first time the world had heard Francis' voice since the 88-year-old was admitted to Rome’s Gemelli Hospital on February 14.

According to reports, the crowd was surprised and broke into applause after Francis’ final “Gracias.”

The Vatican had previously released written letters and medical updates about the pope. In the latest update, the Vatican said he was stable and did not have a fever.

Although doctors describe the pontiff's condition as "guarded"—meaning he is not yet out of danger—the Vatican confirmed that the pope had been able to work between receiving treatments and resting.

The 88-year-old pope has been stable for three full days after suffering two respiratory crises on Monday.

This marks his longest absence since the start of his papacy 12 years ago.

Reuteurs reported, the pope, who is known to work himself to exhaustion, has continued to perform duties from the hospital. On Thursday, the Vatican announced the appointments of two bishops, which would have required his approval.

The pope has experienced several bouts of ill health over the last two years and is prone to lung infections due to having had pleurisy as a young adult, as well as part of one lung removed.

(Inputs from agencies)