Dozens of children gathered outside the hospital, sending messages of love and encouragement to Pope Francis as he recovers from pneumonia.
Children Bring Cheer to Pope Francis During His Hospital Stay
Children Bring Cheer to Pope Francis During His Hospital Stay
Young admirers express support for the pontiff's recovery outside Gemelli Hospital.
Children's voices echoed in the air as they gathered at Gemelli Hospital in Rome on Sunday, where Pope Francis has been undergoing treatment for pneumonia for over four weeks. With vibrant balloons in Vatican colors and sounds of jubilation, children chanted "Papa Francesco" and “Viva la Pace,” a celebration of peace, hoping to lift the pope's spirits.
Near the statue of the late Pope John Paul II, the youthful gathering held up colorful signs, dreaming that their beloved pope might gaze out from his 10th-floor suite. One enthusiastic boy waved a sign saying, “Ciao Papa Cesco, I love you a lot,” capturing the affection of the children who yearn to see their spiritual leader.
Though the pope did not make a personal appearance, he expressed his gratitude through his traditional Sunday blessing offered remotely for the fifth consecutive time. “I know that many children are praying for me; some of them came here today as a sign of closeness,” he stated, reassuring them of his love and eagerness to meet them once he recovers.
Organized by Rev. Enzo Fortunato, president of the pontifical committee for World Children’s Day, the event drew attention as a poignant reminder of the joy children bring. Fortunato commented that their presence was like “symbolic medicine” for the ailing pope, emphasizing the importance of their spirit.
The heartfelt posters and letters created by the children will be preserved for Pope Francis at the Casa Santa Marta, the Vatican guesthouse. Father Fortunato expressed confidence that the pope will personally respond to these heartfelt messages when he is able to resume his normal activities.
Near the statue of the late Pope John Paul II, the youthful gathering held up colorful signs, dreaming that their beloved pope might gaze out from his 10th-floor suite. One enthusiastic boy waved a sign saying, “Ciao Papa Cesco, I love you a lot,” capturing the affection of the children who yearn to see their spiritual leader.
Though the pope did not make a personal appearance, he expressed his gratitude through his traditional Sunday blessing offered remotely for the fifth consecutive time. “I know that many children are praying for me; some of them came here today as a sign of closeness,” he stated, reassuring them of his love and eagerness to meet them once he recovers.
Organized by Rev. Enzo Fortunato, president of the pontifical committee for World Children’s Day, the event drew attention as a poignant reminder of the joy children bring. Fortunato commented that their presence was like “symbolic medicine” for the ailing pope, emphasizing the importance of their spirit.
The heartfelt posters and letters created by the children will be preserved for Pope Francis at the Casa Santa Marta, the Vatican guesthouse. Father Fortunato expressed confidence that the pope will personally respond to these heartfelt messages when he is able to resume his normal activities.
