Pope Francis Sends Message Amid Health Issues: ‘Thank You for Your Closeness’

While Pope Francis remains hospitalized with respiratory issues, the pontiff returned to social media Sunday to thank the world for its support.

February 23, 2025 · 1 min · 45 words · David Benitez

Thank you for your closeness, and for the consoling prayers I have received from all over the world!

May we transform evil into goodness and build a fraternal world.

Do not be afraid to take risks for love!

Pope FrancisStefano Costantino/SOPA Images/LightRocket via Getty Images