Pope Francis, who is hospitalized in the Gemelli Polyclinic in Rome due to bronchitis, was unable to preside over the Angelus prayer this Sunday. Following medical indications, the Pontiff remains in absolute rest to facilitate his recovery.

Despite his physical absence, the Pope sent a message released by the Press Office of the Holy See. In it, he expressed his gratitude for the prayers and signs of affection received during his convalescence, highlighting the importance of faith and solidarity in times of difficulty.

The Holy Father also recalled the recent celebration of the Holy Mass dedicated to artists in St. Peter’s Basilica, underlining the value of art as a universal language that unites people beyond their differences.

Francis also called on the international community not to cease its efforts in the search for peace, urging that conflicts be resolved through dialogue and mutual understanding.

The Pontiff is expected to remain under medical observation in the coming days until specialists determine his progress and possible discharge from the hospital.

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Text prepared by the Holy Father

Brothers and sisters, Happy Sunday!

Today we celebrated in the Vatican the Eucharist dedicated in particular to the artists who came from various parts of the world to experience the Jubilee Days. I thank the Dicastery for Culture and Education for preparing this event, which reminds us of the importance of art as a universal language that spreads beauty and unites peoples, helping to harmonize the world and silence every cry of war.

I would like to greet all the artists who have participated: I would have liked to be with you, but, as you know, I am here at the Gemelli Polyclinic because I still need treatment for my bronchitis.

I address my greeting to all the pilgrims present in Rome today, especially the faithful of the Diocese of Parma, who have come on a diocesan pilgrimage, guided by their bishop.

I invite everyone to continue to pray for peace in tormented Ukraine, in Palestine, in Israel and in the whole of the Middle East, in Myanmar, in Kivu and in Sudan.

I thank you for the affection, the prayer and the closeness with which you are accompanying me these days, just as I would like to thank the doctors and medical staff of this Hospital for their care: they do such precious and tiring work, let us support them with prayer!

And now let us entrust ourselves to Mary, the “Full of Grace,” so that she may help us to be, like her, singers and creators of the beauty that saves the world.