Pope Francis releases new message however worshippers are extra anxious than ever
The Pope has thanks worshippers for their prayers – but an audio message has left worshippers more worried than ever. Having been struggling with with pneumonia for the last several days, Pope Francis has now released a message from his hospital bed in audio form.
He said: “I thank you with all my heart for the prayers you offer for my health from [St. Peter’s] Square. I accompany you from here. May God bless you, and may the Virgin protect you. Thank you.”
The 20-second clip features the Pope gasping for air and sounding raspy throughout. He was speaking in Spanish at the time, and Vatican News claims it was broadcast in St Peter’s Square in Rome at 9pm local time this evening.
(Image: AFP via Getty Images)
But it has left many worried, with one posting on social media: “It’s so good to hear Pope Francis’s voice, even if he is short of breath and it clearly took a great amount of effort. Keep praying for our Holy Father.” And another said that it actually sounded like it was created by “Artificial Intelligence”.
It comes hours after the latest statement from the Holy See Press Office which said: “The Holy Father’s clinical condition has remained stable compared to previous days. He has not experienced any episodes of respiratory insufficiency today. The Pope has continued both respiratory and motor physiotherapy with beneficial effects. Hemodynamic parameters and blood test results remain stable.
“He did not run a fever. However, the prognosis remains reserved. Given the stability of his clinical condition, the next medical bulletin will be issued on Saturday.
“Today, the Holy Father engaged in some work activities in both the morning and afternoon, alternating them with periods of rest and prayer. Before lunch, he received the Eucharist.”
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